Journal of the stylistic of Persian poem and prose
volume Number 19، number In Volume 6، September 2026 ، issue Number 124

Rhetorical and Persuasive Style in Fihi Ma Fihi Based on Fairclough’s Theory

Mohammad Reza Akhtari , Fatemeh Modarresi (Author in Charge)

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Fihi Ma Fihi, as a discursive and didactic work, reflects Rumi’s distinctive method of communicating with and persuading his audience. Drawing on Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), this study aims to examine the rhetorical and persuasive style of Rumi in Fihi Ma Fihi and to show how language, parables, direct address, and mystical arguments are employed to influence the audience.

METHODOLOGY: This research adopts a descriptive–analytical approach. The data were extracted from the text of Fihi Ma Fihi and analyzed based on Fairclough’s three-dimensional model of discourse analysis: description, interpretation, and explanation. At the descriptive level, linguistic and rhetorical elements were examined; at the interpretive level, the relationship between the text and the audience was analyzed; and at the explanatory level, the connection between Rumi’s mystical discourse and the intellectual and social context was explored.

FINDINGS: The findings indicate that in Fihi Ma Fihi Rumi employs various persuasive techniques such as question-and-answer structures, direct address, parables, anecdotes, references to Qur’anic verses and hadith, repetition, and semantic contrasts to persuade his audience. His language is simple and conversational yet highly influential, guiding the audience from superficial understanding toward deeper spiritual insight. In the text, Rumi appears in the role of a spiritual guide and authoritative teacher who speaks with discursive authority.

CONCLUSION: The results show that the rhetorical and persuasive style of Fihi Ma Fihi functions as a means of conveying mystical teachings and reshaping the audience’s perspective. From the perspective of Fairclough’s theory, Rumi’s language is not merely a medium of expression but a discursive mechanism for meaning production, the establishment of spiritual authority, and the transformation of the audience’s mindset.

Keyword
Fihi Ma Fihi , Rumi , Critical Discourse Analysis , Norman Fairclough , rhetorical style.