Seven Khayyam Skills for Modern Living
Seven Khayyam Skills for Modern Living: this reading is based on a philosophical and therapeutic reading of Omar Khayyam’s Rubaiyat, a collection of simple yet profound principles that can help us live with greater awareness and serenity in our daily lives.
1. The Principle of the Present Moment
– Khayyam repeatedly emphasizes the value of the “now”.
– Practice: spend a few minutes each day focusing solely on your breath and surroundings without judgment, without thoughts of past or future.
2. The Principle of Impermanence
– Everything is fleeting: joy, sorrow, power, wealth.
– Practice: when facing a challenge, gently remind yourself that “this too shall pass”.
3. The Principle of Simple Pleasures
– Khayyam finds joy not in excess, but in simplicity a flower, a friend, and countless small wonders around us.
– Practice: consciously savor one small and simple pleasure each day (e.g., sipping tea, listening to music, chatting with a friend, watching the sunset).
4. The Principle of Doubt and Inquiry
– Khayyam teaches us to recognize imposed beliefs and not fear questioning them.
– Practice: each week, challenge one belief or habit. Ask “Is this imposed? Does it still hold meaning for me?”
5. The Principle of Sincerity
– Khayyam critiques social and religious hypocrisy.
– Practice: choose one situation, however minor, and act or speak with complete honesty.
6. The Principle of Companionship with Wisdom and Friendship
– In the *Rubaiyat*, companionship with wise friends is deeply valued.
– Practice: dedicate time to a meaningful conversation with a friend or to reading a wise text.
7. The Principle of Peace with Mortality
– To Khayyam, death is not an end, but part of nature’s cycle.
– Practice: instead of fearing death, do one small thing each day that you’d be proud of if it were your last.
Conclusion
These seven skills offer a practical roadmap for living with awareness, integrity, and peace. Khayyam reminds us that life is short, but it can be rich with meaning and beauty if we embrace the moment, reject pretense, and walk alongside wisdom and friendship.
For more about Khayyam, click here.
