Tulu-e-Islam The Rise of Islam

Daleel-E-Subah-E-Roshan Hai Sitaron Ki Tunak Tabi
Ufaq Se Aftab Ubhra, Gya Dour-E-Garan Khawabi

The dimness of the stars is evidence of the bright morning.
The sun has risen over the horizon; the time of deep slumber has passed.

Urooq-E-Murda’ay Mashriq Mein Khoon-E-Zindagi Dora
Samajh Sakte Nahin Iss Raaz Ko Seena-O-Farabi

The blood of life runs in the veins of the dead East:
Avicenna and Farabi cannot understand this secret.

Musalman Ko Musalman Kar Diya Toofan-E-Maghrib Ne
Talatum Haye Darya Hi Se  Hai Gohar Ki Seerabi

The storm in the West made Muslims Muslims.
Pearls are produced in abundance from the very buffetings of the sea.

Atta Momin Ko Phir Dargah-E-Haq Se Hone Wala Hai
Shikoh-E-Turkamani, Zehan-E-Hindi, Nutq-E-Arabi

The true believers are once more to receive from the court of God
The glory of the Turkamans, the intellect of the Indians and the eloquence of the Arabs.

Asar Kuch Khawab Ka Ghunchon Mein Baqi Hai To Ae Bulbul !
“Nawa Ra Talakh Tar Mee Zan Choo Zauq-E-Nagma Kmyabi”

If there is still some trace of sleep left in the buds, my nightingale,
Then make your songs more plaintive, for you found their desire to hear your melody too little.

Note: The italicized line is translated from the poet Urfi Shirazi. Iqbal also used it in his poem ‘Urfi’.

Tarap Sehan-E-Chaman Mein, Ashiyan Mein, Shakhsaron Mein
Juda Pare Se Ho Sakti Nahin Taqdeer-E-Seemabi

Whether your agitation be in the courtyard of the garden, in the nest, in the leafy branches—
This quicksilver‐destiny cannot be separated from mercury.

Woh Chashm-E-Paak Been Kyun Zeenat-E-Bargistawan Dekhe
Nazar Ati Hai Jis Ko Mard-E-Ghazi Ki Jigar Tabi

Why should that pure‐seeing eye look at the glitter of armour on the horse
When it sees the valour of the holy warrior?

Zameer-E-Lala Mein Roshan Charagh-E-Arzoo Kar De
Chaman Ke Zarre Zarre Ko Shaheed-E-Justujoo Kar De

Make the lamp of desire bright in the heart of the tulip!
Make every particle of the garden a martyr to search!

Sar Shak-E-Chashm-E-Muslim Mein Hai Neesan Ka Asar Paida
Khalil-Allah (A.S.) Ke Darya Mein Hon Ge Phir Guhar Paida

The effect of the spring‐rain is born in the tears of the Muslims.
Pearls will be born again in the sea of the Friend of God.

Kitab-E-Millat-E-Baiza Ki Phir Sheeraza Bandi Hai
Ye Shakh-E-Hashmi Karne Ko Hai Phir Barg-E-Bar Paida

This book of the Radiant Community is receiving a new binding;
The Hashimite branch is once more ready to bring forth new leaves and fruit.

Rubood Aan Turk Sheerazi Dil-E-Tabraiz-O-Kabil Ra
Saba Karti Hai Buay Gul Se Apna Hamsafar Paida

The Turk of Shiraz has ravished the heart of Tabriz and Kabul;
The morning breeze makes the scent of the rose its companion on the road.

Agar Usmaniyon Par Koh-E-Gham Toota To Kya Gham Hai
Ke Khoon-E-Sad Hazar Anjum Se Hoti Hai Sahar Paida

If a mountain of grief collapsed upon the Ottomans, then why lament?
For the dawn arises from the blood of a hundred thousand stars.

Jahan Baani Se Hai Dushwar Tar Kar-E-Jahan Beeni
Jigar Khoon Ho To Chashm-E-Dil Mein Hoti Hai Nazar Paida

More difficult than the conquest of the world is the task of seeing the world;
When the heart is reduced to blood, only then does the eye of the heart receive its sight.

Hazaron Saal Nargis Apni Benoori Pe Roti Hai
Bari Mushkil Se Hota Hai Chaman Mein Didahwar Paida

For a thousand years the narcissus has been lamenting its blindness;
With great difficulty the one with true vision is born in the garden.

Nawa Pera Ho Ae Bulbul Ke Ho Tere Taranum Se
Kabootar Ke Tan-E-Nazuk Mein Shaheen Ka Jigar Paida

Burst into song, oh nightingale! so that from your melody
The spirit of the royal falcon may arise in the delicate body of the dove!

Tere Seene Mein Hai Poshida Raaz-E-Zindagi Keh De
Musalman Se Hadees-E-Soz-O-Saaz-E-Zindagi Keh De

The secret of life is hidden in your breast—then tell it;
Tell the Muslims the account of the burning and re‐making of life.

Khuda’ay Lam Yazil Ka Dast-E-Qudrat Tu, Zuban Tu Hai
Yaqeen Paida Kar Ae Ghafil Ke Maghloob-E-Guman Tu Hai

You are the ever‐powerful hand and the tongue of the eternal God;
Give birth to certainty, of negligent one, for your are laid low by doubt.

Pare Hai Charakh-E-Neeli Faam Se Manzil Musalman Ki
Sitare Jis Ki Gard-E-Rah Hon, Woh Karwan Tu Hai

The goal of the Muslim lies beyond the blue sky;
You are the caravan, which the stars follow as dust on the road.

Makan Fani, Makeen Ani, Azal, Tera, Abad Tera
Khuda Ka Akhiri Pegham Hai Tu, Javidan Tu Hai

Space is transient; its inhabitants are transitory, but the beginning of time is yours; its end is yours.
You are the final message of God; you are eternal.

Hina Band-E-Uroos-E-Lala Hai Khoon-E-Jigar Tera
Teri Nisbat Baraheemi Hai, Mamaar-E-Jahan Tu Hai

The blood of your heart is the henna which decorates the tulip‐bride.
You belong to Abraham; you are the builder of the world.

Teri Fitrat Ameen Hai Mumkanat-E-Zindagani Ki
Jahan Ke Johar-E-Muzmar Ka Goya Imtihan Tu Hai

Your nature is the trustee of all the possibilities of life;
You are like the touchstone of the hidden essence of the world.

Jahan-E-Aab-O-Gil Se Alam-E-Javed Ki Khatir
Nabuwat Sath Jis Ko Le Gyi Woh Armgahan Tu Hai

The One who left this world of water and clay for eternal life—
The one whom the prophethood took with it—you are that gift.

Ye Nukta Sargazhat-E-Millat-E-Baiza Se Hai Paida
Ke Aqwam-E-Zameen-E-Asia Ka Pasban Tu Hai

This principle rises from the story of the Radiant Community—
You are the guardian of the nations of the land of Asia.

Sabaq Phir Parh Sadaqat Ka, Adalat Ka, Shujaat Ka
Liya Jaye Ga Tujh Se Kaam Dunya Ki Imamat Ka

Read again the lesson of truth, of justice and valour!
You will be asked to do the work of taking on responsibility for the world.

Yehi Maqsood-E-Fitrat Hai, Yehi Ramz-E-Muslamani
Akhuwat Ki Jahangeeri, Mohabat Ki Farawani

This is the destiny of nature; this is the secret of Islam—
World‐wide brotherhood, an abundance of love!

Butan-E-Rang-O-Khoon Ko Torh Kar Millat Mein Gum Ho Ja
Na Toorani Rahe Baqi, Na Irani Na Afghani

Break the idols of colour and blood and become lost in the community.
Let neither Turanians, Iranians nor Afghan remain.

Miyan-E-Shakhsaran Sohbat-E-Murgh-E-Chaman Kab Talak!
Tere Bazu Mein Hai Parwaz-E-Shaheen-E-Kehsatani

How long will you keep company in the branches with the birds of the garden;
In your arms is the flight of the royal hawk of Quhistan.

Guman Abad-E-Hasti Mein Yaqeen Mard-E-Musalman Ka
Byaban Ki Shab-E-Tareek Mein Qindeel-E-Rahbani

In the abode of doubts of existence is the certainty of the Muslim hero;
In the darkness of the desert night is the candle of the monks.

Mitaya Qaisar-E-Kasra Ke Istabdad Ko Jis Ne
Woh Kya Tha, Zor-E-Haider (R.A.), Faqr-E-Bu Zar (R.A.), Sidq-E-Salmani (R.A.)

What was it that erased the tyranny of Caesar and Cyrus?
The power of Hyder (R.A.), the asceticism of Bu Dharr (R.A.), the truth of Salman (R.A.)!

Huway Ahrar-E-Millat Jadah Pema Kis Tajamul Se
Tamashayi Shagaaf-E-Dar Se Hain Sadiyon Ke Zindani

How magnificently the heroes of the community have blazed the trail,
And those who have been prisoners for centuries peer at them through a crack in the door.

Sabat-E-Zindagi Aeeman-E-Muhkam Se Hai Dunya Mein
Kah Almani Se Bhi Paenda Tar Nikla Hai Toorani

The stability of life in the world comes from the strength of faith,
For the Turanians have emerged firmer than even the Germans.

Jab Iss Angara’ay Khaki Mein Hota Hai Yaqeen Paida
To Kar Leta Hai Ye Bal-O-Par-E-Rooh-ul-Ameen Paida

When certainty is born in these embers of ashes,
Then it gives birth to the wings of Gabriel.

Ghulami Mein Na Kaam Ati Hain Shamsheerain Na Tadbeerain
Jo Ho Zauq-E-Yaqeen Paida To Kat Jati Hain Zanjeerain

In slavery, neither swords or plans are effective,
But when the taste for certainty is created, then the chains are cut.

Koi Andaza Kar Sakta Hai Uss Ke Zor-E-Bazu Ka !
Nigah-E-Mard-E-Momin Se Badal Jati Hain Taqdeerain

Can anyone even guess at the strength of his arm?
By the glance of the man who is a true believer even destiny is changed.

Walayat, Padshahi, Ilm-E-Ashiya Ki Jahangeeri
Ye Sub Kya Hain, Faqat Ek Nukta-E-Aeeman Ki Tafseerain

Empire, sainthood, the knowledge of things which holds the world in its sway—
What are they all? Only commentaries on one small point of faith.

Baraheemi Nazar Paida Magar Mushkil Se Hoti Hai
Hawas Chup Chup Ke Seenon Mein Bana Leti Hai Tasweerain

But it is difficult to create the insight of Abraham (A.S.);
Desire insidiously paints pictures in our breasts.

Tameez-E-Banda-O-Aaqa Fasad-E-Admiyat Hai
Hazar Ae Cheerah Dastan! Sakht Hain Fitrat Ki Taazirain

The distinction of servant and lord has put mankind into turmoil;
Beware, oh powerful ones; the penalties of nature are harsh.

Haqiqat Aik Hai Har Shay Ki, Khaki Ho Ke Noori Ho
Lahoo Khursheed Ka Tapake Agar Zarre Ka Dil Cheerain

There is one reality for everything, be it of earth or fire;
The blood of the sun will drip, of we split the heart of an atom.

Yaqeen Mohkam, Amal Peham, Mohabbat Faateh-E-Alam
Jahad-E-Zindagani Mein Hain Ye Mardon Ki Shamsheerain

Firm certainty, eternal action, the love that conquers the world—
These are the swords of men in the holy war of life.

Cha Bayad Mard Ra Tabaa-E-Bulanday, Mashrab-E-Naabay
Dil-E-Garmee, Nigah-E-Pak Beenay, Jaan-E-Betabay

What else does man need but a lofty spirit and pure character,
A warm heart, a pure‐sighted eye and a restless soul?

Auqabi Shan Se Jhapte The Jo, Bebaal-O-Par Nikle
Sitare Sham Ke Khoon-E-Shafaq Mein Doob Kar Nikle

Those who rushed forward with the splendor of the eagle emerged plucked of their wings and plumage;
The stars of evening sank in the blood of the sunset but rose again.

Huway Madfoon-E-Darya Zair-E-Darya Tairne Wale
Tamanche Mouj Ke Khate The Jo, Ban Kar Guhar Nikle

Those who swam under the sea were buried by the ocean,
But those who suffered the buffeting of the wave arose, and became pearls.

Ghabar-Ereh Guzar Hain, Keemiya Par Naaz Tha Jin Ko
Jibeenain Khak Par Rakhte The Jo, Ikseer Gar Nikle

Those who prided themselves on their alchemy are the dust of the wayside;
Those who kept their forehead upon the dust emerged as the makers of elixir.

Hamara Naram Ro Qasid Peyam-E-Zindagi Laya
Khabar Deti Theen Jin Ko Bijliyan Woh Be-Khabar Nikle

Our slow‐running messenger brought the tidings of life;
Those to whom the lightning gave news emerged unknowing.

Haram Ruswa Huwa Peer-E-Haram Ki Kam Nigahi Se
Jawanan-E-Tatari Kis Qadar Sahib-E-Nazar Nikle

The Shrine was disgraced by the lack of foresight of the old keeper of the shrine;
But how our Tartar heroes emerged as young men of vision!

Zameen Se Nooriyan-E-Asman Parwaz Kehte The
Ye Khaki Zinda Tar, Paenda Tar, Tabinda Tar Nikle

Those who soar aloft and light the sky say this to the earth,
‘These earth‐bound creatures emerged more lively, more stable and more shining.’

Jahan Mein Ahl-E-Aeeman Soorat-E-Khursheed Jeete Hain
Idhar Doobe Udhar Nikle, Udhar Doobe Idhar Nikle

In the world, the people of faith live like the sun;
Here they sink, there they arise, there they sink, here they arise!

Yaqeen Afrad Ka Sarmaya-E-Tameer-E-Millat Hai
Yehi Quwwat Hai Jo Soorat Gar-E-Taqdeer-E-Millat Hai

The certainty of individuals is the capital for building the community;
This is the power which draws the portrait of the fate of the community.

Tu Raaz-E-Kun Fakan Hai, Apni Ankhon Par Ayan Ho Ja
Khudi Ka Raazdan Ho Ja, Khuda Ka Tarjuman Ho Ja

You are the secret of creation, see yourself in your eyes;
Share the secret of your own self, become the spokesman of God.

Hawas Me Kar Diya Tukre Tukre Nu-E-Insan Ko
Akhuwat Ka Byan Ho Ja, Mohabbat Ki Zuban Ho Ja

Greed has split mankind into little pieces;
Become the statement of brotherhood, become the language of love.

Ye Hindi, Who Khurasani, Ye Afghani, Who Toorani
Tu Ae Sharminda-E-Sahil ! Uchal Kar Be-Karan Ho Ja

Here are Indians, there people of Khurasan, here Afghans, there Turanians—
You, who despise the shore, rise up and make yourself boundless.

Ghubar Aludah’ay Rang-O-Nasb Hain Baal-O-Par Tere
Tu Ae Murgh-E-Hara ! Urne Se Pehle Par-Fishan Ho Ja

Your wings and your plumage are soiled with the dust of colour and race;
You, my bird of the holy shrine, shake your wings before you start to fly.

Khudi Mein Doob Ja Ghafil ! Ye Sir-E-Zindagani Hai
Nikl Kar Halqa-E-Shaam-O-Sahar Se Javidan Ho Ja

Immerse yourself in your self, my forgetful one, this is the secret of life;
Come out from the fetters of evening and morning, become immortal.

Masaf-E-Zindagi Mein Seerat-E-Foulad Paida Kar
Shabistan-E-Mohabbat Mein Harair-O-Parniyan Ho Ja

On the battle‐field of life adopt the nature of steel;
In the bed‐chamber of love become as soft as silk and painted brocade.

Guzar Ja Ban Ke Seel-E-Tund Ro Koh-E-Byaban Se
Gulistan Rah Mein Aye To Joo’ay Naghma Khawan Ho Ja

Pass like a river in full spate through the mountains and the deserts;
If the garden should come your way, then become a melodiously singing stream.

Tere Ilm-O-Mohabbat Ki Nahin Hai Intaha Koi
Nahin Hai Tujh Se Barh Kar Saaz-E-Fitrat Mein Nawa Koi

There is no limit to your knowledge and love;
In the instrument of nature there is no sweeter song than you.

Abhi Tak Admi Sayd-E-Zaboon-E-Sheher Yari Hai
Qayamat Hai Ke Insan Nu-E-Insan Ka Shikari Hai

Even now, mankind if the miserable prey to imperialism;
How distressing that man is hunted by man!

Nazar Ko Kheerah Karti Hai Chamak Tehzeeb-E-Hazir Ki
Ye Sanaee Magar Jhoote Nagon Ki Rezakari Hai

The glitter of modern civilization dazzles the sight;
But this clever craftsmanship is a mosaic of false jewels.

Woh Hikmat Naz Tha Jis Par Khiradmandan-E-Maghrib Ko
Hawas Ke Panja’ay Khoonin Mein Taegh-E-Karzari Hai

That science, in which the scholars of the West took pride,
Is the sword of warfare held in the bloody grip of greed.

Tadabur Ki Fasoon Kari Se Mohkam Ho Nahin Sakta
Jahan Mein Jis Tamaddan Ki Bina Sarmayadari Hai

That civilization of the world, which is founded on capitalism,
Can never be become strong by spellbinding schemes.

Amal Se Zindagi Banti Hai Jannat Bhi, Jahanum Bhi
Ye Khaki Apni Fitrat Mein Na Noori Hai Na Naari Hai

By action life may become both paradise and hell;
This creature of dust in its nature is neither of light nor of fire.

Kharosh Amoz-E-Bulbul Ho, Girah Ghunche Ki Wa Kar De
Ke Tu Iss Gulistan Ke Waste Baad-E-Bahari Hai

Teach the nightingale to send forth its clamour;
Open the knot of the bud, for you are the spring breeze for this garden.
Phir Uthi Asia Ke Dil Se Chankari Mohabbat Ki
Zameen Joulan Geh-E-Atlas Qabayan-E-Tatari Hai

Once more the spark of love has arisen from the heart of Asia;
The earth is the coursing‐ground for the stain-cloaked Tartars.

Baya Paida Khareedarst Jaan-E-Natoowane Ra
“Pas Az Muddat Gudaz Aftaad Barma Karwame Ra”

Arise! A buyer has come to our hapless life;
After an age, the time has come for our caravan’s departure.

Baya Saqi Nawaye Murgh-E-Zaar Az Shakhsar Amad
Bahar Amad Nigar Amad, Nigar Amad Qirar Amad

Come, Saki! The song of the bird of the garden has come from the branches;
The spring has come; the beloved has come; peace has come!

Kasheed Abar-E-Bahari Khemah Andar Wai-O-Sehra
Sada’ay Absharan Az Faraz-E-Kohsar Amad

 The spring cloud has pitched its tent in the valley and the desert;
The sound of the waterfall has come from the summit of the mountains.

Sarat Gardam To Ham Qanoon-E-Paisheen Saazdah Saqi
Ke Kheel-E-Naghma Pardazan Qitar Andar Qitar Amad

I implore you; renew the law of the past!
For the army of singers has come drove upon drove.

Kanar Az Zahadan Bargeer-O-Bebakana Saghar Kash
Pas Az Muddar Azeen Shakh-E-Kuhan Bang-E-Hazar Amad

Turn away from the ascetics and fearlessly drink wine from the jar;
After an age the song of the nightingale has rung out from this old branch.

Ba Mushtaqan Hadees-E-Khawajah (S.A.W.)-E-Badar-O-Hunain Awar
Tasarraf Haye Pinhanash Ba-Chashm Ashkar Amad

Bring the account of the Master of Badr and Hunain (PBUH) to those who yearn;
Its hidden mystic powers have been revealed to the eye.


Dgar Shakh-E-Khalil (A.S.) Az Khoon-E-Ma Namnaak Mee Gardad
Baba Zaar-E-Mohabbat Naqad-E-Maa Kamil Ayar Amad

Again the branch of Khalil has been watered by the sap of our blood;
In the marketplace of love our cash has proved to be perfect.

Sir-E-Khak Shaheeday Barg Haye Lala Mee Pasham
Ke Khawinsh Banihal-E-Millat Ma Saazgar Amad

I scatter the pearls of tulips upon the dust of the martyrs,
For their blood has proved to be effective for the saplings of the community.

“Baya Ta Gul Bifasha-Neeyam Wa May Dar Saghar Andazyam
Falak Ra Saqaf Bashagafiyam Wa Tarah-E-Deegar Andazyam”

Come, so that we may strew roses and pour a measure of wine in the cup!
Let us split open the roof of the heavens and think upon new ways.

Falasteeni Arab Se - To The Palestinian Arabs

Zamana Ab Bhi Nahin Jis Ke Souz Se Farig
Mein Janta Hun Woh Atish Tere Wujood Mein Hai

I know the fire that burns throughout your frame,
The lands of world still fear its scorching flame.

Teri Dawa Na Geneva Mein Hai, Na London Mein
Farang Ki Rag-e-Jaan Panja-e-Yahood Mein Hai

Your cure in Geneva or London you canʹt trace,
Wind‐pipe of Franks is gripped by Jewish race.

Suna Hai Main Ne, Ghulami Se Ummaton Ki Nijat
Khudi Ki Parwarish-o-Lazzat-e-Namood Mein Hai

I know that subject nations freedom gain,
If they would nourish self, display its main.

Sham-o-Falasteen - Syria And Palestine

Rindan-e-Faransis Ka Maikhana Salamat
Pur Hai Mai-e-Gulrang Se Har Sheesha Halab Ka

Heaven’s blessing on those brazen Frenchmen shine!
Aleppo’s rare glass brims with their red wine.

Hai Khak-e-Falasteen Pe Yahoodi Ka Agar Haq
Haspania Pe Haq Nahin Kyun Ahl-e-Arab Ka

—If the Jew claims the soil of Palestine,
Why not the Arab Spain?

Maqsad Hai Mulookiat-e-Englees Ka Kuch Aur
Qissa Nahin Naranj Ka Ya Shehad-o-Rutab Ka

Some new design must have inflamed our English potentates;
This is no story of oranges, honey or dates.

Ilm-o-Ishq - Knowlwdge & Love

Ilm Ne Mujh Se Kaha Ishq Hai Diwana-Pan
Ishq Ne Mujh Se Kaha Ilm Hai Takhmeen-o-Zan

Knowledge said to me, Love is madness;
Love said to me, Knowledge is calculation—

Band-e-Takhmeen-o-Zan! Kirm-e-Kitabi Na Ban
Ishq Sarapa Huzoor, Ilm Sarapa Hijab!

O slave of calculation, do not be a bookworm!
Love is Presence entire, Knowledge nothing but a Veil.

Ishq Ki Garmi Se Hai Maarka-e-Kainat
Ilm Maqam-e-Sifat, Ishq Tamasha-e-Zaat

The universe is moved by the warmth of Love;
Knowledge deals with the Attributes, Love is a vision of the Essence;

Ishq Sukoon-o-Sabat,Ishq Hayat-o-Mamat
Ilm Hai Paida Sawal, Ishq Hai Pinhan Jawab!

Love is peace and permanence, Love is Life and Death:
Knowledge is the rising question, Love is the hidden answer.

Ishq Ke Hain Maujazat Saltanat-o-Faqr-o-Deen
Ishq Ke Adna Ghulam Sahib-e-Taj-o-Nageen

Kingdom, faith and faqr are all miracles of Love;
The crowned kings and lords are base slaves of Love;

Ishq Makan-o-Makeen, Ishq Zaman-o-Zameen
Ishq Sarapa Yaqeen, Aur Yaqeen Fatah-e-Bab!

Love is the Space and the Creation, Love is Time and Earth!
Love is conviction entire, and conviction is the key!

Shara-e-Mohabbat Mein Hai Ishrat-e-Manzil Haraam
Shorish-e-Toofan Halal, Lazzat-e-Sahil Haraam

The luxury of destination is forbidden in the religion of Love;
Fighting the storms is permitted, but the comfort of the shore is forbidden;

Ishq Pe Bijli Halal, Ishq Pe Hasil Haraam
Ilm Hai Ibn-Ul-Kitab, Ishq Umm-Ul-Kitab!

Lightning is permitted to Love, Harvest is forbidden.
Knowledge is the child of the Book, Love is the mother of the Book.

Masjid-e-Qurtuba - The Mosque of Cordoba

(Haspania Ki Sarzameen, Bil-Khasoos Qurtaba Mein Likhi Gyi)
(Written in Spain, especially Cordoba)

Silsalah-E-Roz-O-Shab, Naqsh Gar-E-Hadsaat
Silsalah-E-Roz-O-Shab, Asal-E-Hayat-O-Mamaat

The succession of day and night, is the architect of events.
The succession of day and night, is the fountain‐head of life and death.

Silsalah-E-Roz-O-Shab, Taar-E-Hareer-E-Do Rang
Jis Se Banati Hai Zaat Apni Qaba’ay Sifat

The succession of day and night, is a two‐tone silken twine,
With which the Divine Essence, prepares Its apparel of Attributes.

Silsalah-E-Roz-O-Shab, Saaz-E-Azal Ki Faghan
Jis Se Dikhati Hai Zaat Zair-O-Bam-E-Mumkinaat

The succession of day and night, is the reverberation of the symphony of Creation.
Through its modulations, the Infinite demonstrates the parameters of possibilities.

Tujh Ko Parakhta Hai Ye, Mujh Ko Parakhta Hai Ye
Silsalah-E-Roz-O-Shab, Sayr Fee Kainat

Now sitting in judgement on you, Now setting a value on me.
The succession of day and night is the touchstone of the universe;

Tu Ho Agar Kam Ayaar, Main Hun Agar Kam Ayaar
Mout Hai Teri Baraat, Mout Hai Meri Baraat

But what if you are found wanting, What if I am found wanting.
Death is your ultimate destiny, Death is my ultimate destiny.

Tere Shab-O-Roz Ki Aur Haqiqat Hai Kya
Aik Zamane Ki Ro Jis Mein Na Din Hai Na Raat

What else is the reality of your days and nights,
Besides a surge in the river of time, sans day, sans night.

Aani –O-Fani Tamam Mojazaat Haye Gunar
Kaar-E-Jahan Be-Sabaat, Kaar-E-Jahan Be-Sabaat!

Frail and evanescent, all miracles of ingenuity,
Transient, all temporal attainments; Ephemeral, all worldly accomplishments.

Awwal-O-Akhir Fana, Batin-O-Zahir Fana
Naqsh-E-Kuhan Ho Ke Nau, Manzil-E-Akhir Fana

Annihilation is the end of all beginnings; Annihilation is the end of all ends.
Extinction, the fate of everything; Hidden or manifest, old or new.

Hai Magar Iss Naqsh Mein Rang-E-Sabaat-E-Dawam
Jis Ko Kiya Ho Kisi Mard-E-Khuda Ne Tamam

Yet in this very scenario indelible is the stamp of permanence
On the deeds of the good and godly.

Mard-E-Khuda Ka Amal Ishq Se Sahib Firogh
Ishq Hai Asal-E-Hayat, Mout Hai Iss Par Haraam

Deeds of the godly radiate with Love,
The essence of life, which death is forbidden to touch.

Tund-O-Subak Sair Hai Gharcha Zamane Ki Ro
Ishq Khud Ek Sayl Hai, Sayl Ko Leta Hai Thaam

Fast and free flows the tide of time,
But Love itself is a tide that stems all tides.

Ishq Ki Taqweem Mein Asar-E-Rawan Ke Sawa
Aur Zamane Bhi Hain Jin Ka Nahin Koi Naam

In the chronicle of Love there are times other than the past, the present and the future;
Times for which no names have yet been coined.

Ishq Dam-E-Jibreel, Ishq Dam-E-Mustafa (S.A.W.).
Ishq Khuda Ka Rasool, Ishq Khuda Ka Kalaam

Love is the breath of Gabriel. Love is the heart of Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Love is the messenger of God. Love is the Word of God.

Ishq Ki Masti Se Hai Paikar-E-Gil Taabnaak
Ishq Hai Sehba’ay Khaam, Ishq Hai Kaas-Ul-Kiraam

Love is ecstasy lends luster to earthly forms.
Love is the heady wine, Love is the grand goblet.

Ishq Faqeeh-E-Haram, Ishq Ameer Junood
Ishq Hai Ibn-Ul-Sabeel, Iss Ke Hazaron Maqam

Love is the commander of marching troops,
Love is a wayfarer with many a way‐side abode.

Ishq Ke Mizraab Se Naghma’ay Taar-E-Hayat
Ishq Se Noor-E-Hayat, Ishq Se Naar-E-Hayat

Love is the plectrum that brings Music to the string of life.
Love is the light of life, Love is the fire of life.

Ae Haram-E-Qurtuba! Ishq Se Tera Wujood
Ishq Sarapa Dawam, Jis Mein Nahin Raft-o-Bood

To Love, you owe your being, O, Harem of Cordoba,
To Love, that is eternal; Never waning, never fading.

Rang Ho Ya Khisht-o-Sang, Chang Ho Ya Harf-o-Soot
Moajaza-E-Fan Ki Hai Khoon-E-Jigar Se Namood

Just the media these pigments, bricks and stones; This harp, these words and sounds, just the media.
The miracle of art springs from the lifeblood of the artist!

Katra-E-Khoon-E-Jigar Sil Ko Banata Hai Dil
Khoon-E-Jigar Se Sada Souz-o-Suroor-o-Surood

A droplet of the lifeblood transforms a piece of dead rock into a living heart;
An impressive sound, into a song of solicitude, A refrain of rapture or a melody of mirth.

Teri Fiza Dil Faroz , Meri Nawa Sina Soz
Tujh Se Dilon Ka Huzoor, Mujh Se Dilon Ki Kushood

The aura you exude, illumines the heart. My plaint kindles the soul.
You draw the hearts to the Presence Divine, I inspire them to bloom and blossom.

Arsh-E-Muala Se Kam Sina’ay Adam Nahin
Garche Kaf-Ekhak Ki Had Hai Sipihr-E-Kubood

No less exalted than the Exalted Throne, Is the throne of the heart, the human breast!
Despite the limit of azure skies, Ordained for this handful of dust.

Pekar-E-Noori Ko Hai Sajda Meyasir To Kya
Iss Ko Meyasir Nahin Soz-O-Gudaaz-E-Sujood

Celestial beings, born of light, Do have the privilege of supplication,
But unknown to them are the verve and warmth of prostration.

Kafir-E-Hindi Hun Main, Dekh Mera Zauq-O-Shauq
Dil Mein Salat-O-Durood, Lab Pe Salat-O-Durood

An Indian infidel, perchance, am I; But look at my fervour, my ardour.
‘Blessings and peace upon the Prophet,’ sings my heart.
‘Blessings and peace upon the Prophet,’ echo my lips.

Shauq Meri Le Main Hai, Shauq Meri Ne Mein Hai
Naghma’ay ‘ALLAH HOO’ Mere Rag-E-Pe Mein Hai

My song is the song of aspiration. My lute is the serenade of longing.
Every fibre of my being Resonates with the refrains of Allah hoo!

Tera Jalal-O-Jamal, Mard-E-Khuda Ki Daleel
Woh Bhi Jaleel-O-Jameel, Tu Bhi Jaleel-O-Jameel

Your beauty, your majesty, Personify the graces of the man of faith.
You are beautiful and majestic. He too is beautiful and majestic.

Teri Bina Paidar, Tere Sutoon Be-Shumar
Sham Ke Sehra Mein Ho Jaise Hujoom-E-Nakheel

Your foundations are lasting, Your columns countless,
Like the profusion of palms In the plains of Syria.

Tere Dar-O-Baam Par Wadi-E-Ayman Ka Noor
Tera Minaar-E-Buland Jalwagah-E-Jibreel

Your arches, your terraces, shimmer with the light that once flashed in the valley of Aiman
Your soaring minaret, all aglow In the resplendence of Gabriel’s glory.

Mit Nahin Sakta Kabhi Mard-E-Musalman Ke Hai
Iss Ki Azanon Se Fash Sir-E-Kaleem(A.S.)-O-Khalil(A.S.)

The Muslim is destined to last as
his Azan holds the key to the mysteries of the perennial message of Abraham and Moses.

Iss Ki Zameen Behadood, Is Ka Ufaq Be Sooghoor
Iss Ke Samundar Ki Mouj, Dajla-O-Danyob-O-Neel

His world knows no boundaries, His horizon, no frontiers.
Tigris, Danube and Nile: Billows of his oceanic expanse.

Iss Ke Zamane Ajeeb, Iss Ke Fasane Ghareeb
Ehad-E-Kuhan Ko Diya Iss Ne Payam-E-Raheel

Fabulous, have been his times! Fascinating, the accounts of his achievements!
He it was, who bade the final adieu To the outworn order.

Saqi Arbab-E-Zauq, Faris-E-Maidan-E-Shauq
Badah Hai Iss Ka Raheeq, Taeg Hai Iss Ki Aseel

A cup‐bearer is he, With the purest wine for the connoisseur;
A cavalier in the path of Love with a sword of the finest steel.

Mard-E-Sipahi Hai Woh, Iski Zirah ‘LA ILAHA’
Saya-E-Shamsheer Mein Is Ski Panah ‘LA ILAHA’

A combatant, with 'La Ilah' as his coat of mail.
Under the shadow of flashing scimitars, 'La Ilah' is his protection.

Tujh Se Huwa Ashkara Banda-E-Momin Ka Raaz
Iss Ke Dino Ki Tapish, Is Ke Shabon Ka Gudaaz

Your edifice unravels The mystery of the faithful;
The fire of his fervent days, The bliss of his tender nights.

Iss Ka Maqam Buland, Iss Ka Khayal Azeem
Iss Ka Suroor Iss Ka Shauq, Iss Ka Niaz Iss Ka Naaz

Your grandeur calls to mind The loftiness of his station,
The sweep of his vision, His rapture, his ardour, his pride, his humility.

Hath Hai ALLAH Ka Banda-E-Momin Ka Hath
Ghalib-O-Kaar Afreen, Kaar Kusha, Kaar Saaz

The might of the man of faith is the might of the Almighty:
Dominant, creative, resourceful, consummate.

Khaki-O-Noori Nihad, Banda-E-Mola Sifat
Har Do Jahan Se Ghani Iss Ka Dil-E-Beniaz

He is terrestrial with celestial aspect; A being with the qualities of the Creator.
His contented self has no demands on this world or the other.

Uss Ki Umeedain Qaleel, Uss Ke Maqasid Jaleel
Uss Ki Ada Dil Faraib, Iss Ki Nigah Dil Nawaz

His desires are modest; his aims exalted;
His manner charming; his ways winsome.

Naram Dam-E-Guftugoo, Garam Dam-E-Justujoo
Razm Ho Ya Bazm Ho, Pak Dil-O-Pak Baz

Soft in social exposure, Tough in the line of pursuit.
But whether in fray or in social gathering, Ever chaste at heart, ever clean in conduct.

Nukta’ay Parkar-E-Haq, Mard-E-Khuda Ka Yaqeen
Aur Ye Alam Tamam Weham-O-Tilism-O-Majaz

In the celestial order of the macrocosm, His immutable faith is the centre of the Divine Compass.
All else: illusion, sorcery, fallacy.

Aqal Ki Manzil Hai Woh, Ishq Ka Hasil Hai Woh
Halqa’ay Afaq Mein Garmi-E-Mehfil Hai Woh

He is the journey’s end for reason, He is the raison d ’etre of Love.
An inspiration in the cosmic communion.

Kaaba Arbab-E-Fan! Sitwat-E-Deen-E-Mubeen
Tujh Se Haram Martabat Andlusiyon Ki Zameen

O, Mecca of art lovers, You are the majesty of the true tenet.
You have elevated Andalusia To the eminence of the holy Harem.

Hai Teh-E-Gardoon Agar Husn Mein Teri Nazeer
Qalb-E-Musalman Mein Hai, Aur Nahin Hai Kahin

Your equal in beauty, If any under the skies,
Is the heart of the Muslim and no one else.

Aah Woh Mardan-E-Haq! Woh Arabi Shehsawar
Hamil-E-Khulq-E-Azeem, Sahib-E-Sidq-O-Yaqeen

Ah, those men of truth, Those proud cavaliers of Arabia;
Endowed with a sublime character, Imbued with candour and conviction.

Jin Ki Hukumat Se Hai Fash Ye Ramz-E-Ghareeb
Saltanat Ahl-E-Dil Faqar Hai, Shahi Nahin

Their reign gave the world an unfamiliar concept;
That the authority of the brave and spirited lay in modesty and simplicity, rather than pomp and regality.

Jin Ki Nigahon Ne Ki Tarbiat-E-Sharq-O-Gharb
Zulmat-E-Yorap Mein Thi Jin Khird Rah Been

Their sagacity guided the East and the West.
In the dark ages of Europe, It was the light of their vision that lit up the tracks.

Jin Ke Lahoo Ki Tafail Aaj Bhi Hain Andlasi
Khush Dil-O-Garam Ikhtalaat, Sada-O-Roshan Jabeen

A tribute to their blood it is, That the Andalusians, even today,
Are effable and warm‐hearted, Ingenuous and bright of countenance.

Aaj Bhi Iss Dais Mein Aam Hai Chasm-E-Ghazaal
Aur Nigahon Ke Teer Aaj Bhi Hain Dil Nasheen

Even today in this land, Eyes like those of gazelles are a common sight.
And darts shooting out of those eyes, Even today, are on target.

Boo’ay Yaman Aaj Bhi Is Ski Hawaon Mein Hai
Rang-E-Hijaz Aaj Bhi Iss Ki Nawaon Mein Hai

Its breeze, even today, Is laden with the fragrance of Yemen.
Its music, even today, Carries strains of melodies from Hijaz.

Didah-E-Anjum Mein Hai Teri Zameen, Asman
Aah Ke Sadiyon Se Hai Teri Faza Be-Azan

Stars look upon your precincts as a piece of heaven.
But for centuries, alas! Your porticoes have not resonated With the call of the muezzin.

Kon Se Wadi Mein Hai, Kon Si Manzil Mein Hai
Ishq-E-Bala Khaiz Ka Kafla’ay Sakht Jaan!

What distant valley, what way‐side abode is holding back
That valiant caravan of rampant Love.

Dekh Chuka Almani, Shorish-E-Islah-E-Deen
Jis Ne Na Chore Kahin Naqsh-E-Kuhan Ke Nishan

Germany witnessed the upheaval of religious reforms
That left no trace of the old perspective.

Harf-E-Galat Ban Gyi Ismat-E-Peer-E-Kunisht
Aur Huwi Fikar Ki Kashti-E-Nazuk Rawan

Infallibility of the church sage began to ring false.
Reason, once more, unfurled its sails.

Chashme-E-Francis Bhi Dekh Chuki Inqilab
Jis Se Digargoon Huwa Magribiyon Ka Jahan

France too went through its revolution
That changed the entire orientation of Western life.

Millat-E-Roomi Nazad Kuhna Prasti Se Peer
Lazzat-E-Tajdeed Se Woh Bhi Huwi Phir Jawan

Followers of Rome, feeling antiquated worshipping the ancientry,
Also rejuvenated themselves with the relish of novelty.

Rooh-E-Musalman Mein Hai Aaj Wohi Iztarab
Raaz-E-Khudai Hai Ye, Keh Nahin Sakti Zuban

The same storm is raging today In the soul of the Muslim.
A Divine secret it is, Not for the lips to utter.

Dekhiye Iss Behar Ki Teh Se Uchalta Hai Kya
Gunbad-E-Nilofari Rang Badalta Hai Kya!

Let us see what surfaces from the depths of the deep.
Let us see what color, The blue sky changes into.


Wadi-E-Kuhsaar Mein Garaq-E-Shafaq Hai Sahab
La’al-E-Badkhashan Ke Dhair Chor Gya Aftab

Clouds in the yonder valley are drenched in roseate twilight.
The parting sun has left behind mounds and mounds of rubies, the best from Badakhshan.

Sada-O-Pursoz Hai Dukhtar-E-Dehqan Ka Geet
Kashti-E-Dil Ke Liye Sayl Hai Ehad-E-Shabab

Simple and doleful is the song of the peasant’s daughter:
Tender feelings adrift in the tide of youth.

Aab-E-Rawan-E-Kabeer ! Tere Kinare Koi
Dekh Raha Hai Kisi Aur Zamane Ka Khawab

O, the ever‐flowing waters of Guadalquivir (1, see reference at end),
Someone on your banks is seeing a vision of some other period of time.

Alam-E-Nau Hai Abhi Parda’ay Taqdeer Mein
Meri Nigahon Mein Hai Iss Ki Sehar Behijab

Tomorrow is still in the curtain of intention,
But its dawn is flashing before my mind’s eye.

Parda Utha Doon Agar Chehra’ay Afkar Se
La Na Sake Ga Farang Meri Nawa’on Ki Taab

Were I to lift the veil from the profile of my reflections,
The West would be dazzled by its brilliance.

Jis Mein Na Ho Inqilab, Mout Hai Woh Zindagi
Rooh-E-Ummam Ki Hayat Kashmakash-E-Inqilab

Life without change is death.
The tumult and turmoil of revolution, Keep the soul of a nation alive.

Soorat-E-Shamsheer Hai Dast-E-Qaza Mein Woh Qaum
Karti Hai Jo Har Zaman Apne Amal Ka Hisaab

Keen, as a sword in the hands of Destiny
Is the nation that evaluates its actions at each step.

Naqsh Hain Sub Na-Tamam Khoon-E-Jigar Ke Begair
Naghma Hai Soda’ay Kham Khoon-E-Jigar Ke Begair

Incomplete are all creations without the lifeblood of the creator.
Soulless is the melody without the lifeblood of the maestro.

Wada-Al-Kabeer, Qurtuba Ka Mashoor Darya Jis Ke Qareeb Hi Masjid-E-Qurtaba Waqiya Hai
(1) Guadalquivir—“The well‐known river of Cordoba, near which the Mosque is located.”

Haspania - Spain

Haspania Tu Khoon-e-Musalman Ka Ameen Hai
Manind-e-Haram Pak Hai Tu Meri Nazar Mein

Spain! You are the trustee of the Muslim blood:
In my eyes you are sanctified like the Harem.

Poshida Teri Khak Mein Sajdon Ke Nishan Hain
Khamosh Azanain Hain Teri Baad-e-Sehar Mein

Prints of prostration lie hidden in your dust,
Silent calls to prayers in your morning air.

Roshan Thin Sitaron Ki Tarah In Ki Sananain
Khaime The Kabhi Jin Ke Tere Koh-o-Qamar Mein

In your hills and vales were the tents of those,
The tips of whose lances were bright like the stars.

Phir Tere Haseenon Ko Zaroorat Hai Hina Ki?
Baqi Hai Abhi Rang Mere Khoon-e-Jigar Mein !

Is more henna needed by your pretties?
My lifeblood can give them some colour!

Kyun Khs-o-Khashaak Se Dab Jaye Musalman
Mana, Woh Tab-e-Taab Nahin Iss Ke Sharar Mein

How can a Muslim be put down by the straw and grass,
Even if his flame has lost its heat and fire!

Garnata Bhi Dekha Meri Ankhon Ne Walekin
Taskeen-e-Musafir Na Safar Mein Na Hazr Mein

My eyes watched Granada as well,
But the traveller’s content neither in journey nor in rest:

Dekha Bhi Dikhaya Bhi, Sunaya Bhi Suna Bhi
Hai Dil Ki Tasalli Na Nazar Mein, Na Khabar Mein!

I saw as well as showed, I spoke as well as listened,
Neither seeing nor learning brings calm to the heart!