<![CDATA[This study aims to describe the symbolic meaning of animal elements in the poetry anthology “Bawalah Mayatku pada Kekasihku” by Jalaluddin Rumi, utilizing Roland Barthes' semiotics. A descriptive qualitative method was employed, incorporating "read-and-note" techniques and a literature review. The data consisted of ten poetic stanzas containing animal elements, analyzed according to Barthes' three levels of signification: denotation, connotation, and myth. The findings reveal that the animal elements in Rumi's poetry possess not only literal meanings but also symbolic significance related to human life and spirituality. At the level of connotation, these animal elements symbolize transience, inner experience, freedom, human limitations, the soul's longing, and Divine power. At the level of myth, the symbols reflect a Sufi perspective on human powerlessness, the greatness of God, Divine love, and the human journey toward closeness with God. Thus, the use of animal elements in Rumi's poetry serves as a vehicle for conveying spiritual and Sufi messages.]]>
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