Ibn al-Farid, Umar 🌹
Definition: Ibn al-Farid, Umar (1181-1235) was a celebrated Arab poet, mystic, and saint renowned for his quatrains, love poems (ghazals), and odes (qasidas), which convey a mystical perspective of life where all existence reflects the divine beauty and love of God. His most famous works include Al-khamriyyah (The Wine Ode) and Nazm al-Suluk (The Poem of the Sufi Way).
Etymology and Origin: The name “Ibn al-Farid” translates from Arabic to “Son of the Legal Expert” (Ibn - Son, al-Farid - a title indicating a legal expert), although the poet himself chose the artistic path. Born in Cairo in the year 1181, Umar Ibn al-Farid’s contributions to literature and Sufi thought have left an indelible mark.
Background: Umar Ibn al-Farid, often called “Sultan al-‘Ashiqin” (Sultan of Lovers), is known for intricately weaving everyday themes with mystic spirituality. His early education under his father and his retreat into the desert showcased his dedication to contemplation and poetic expression.
Historical Facts and Dates:
- 1181: Birth in Cairo, marking the beginning of a life devoted to mysticism.
- 1235: Passed away in Cairo, where his tomb still stands as a place of veneration.
- His lifetime saw the flourishing of Sufi thought and the establishment of many enduring legacies in Islamic poetry and mysticism.
Cultural Differences and Similarities: Across the Muslim world, with differences in local practices and beliefs, the influence of Ibn al-Farid is felt. In countries with rich poetic traditions like Iran, India, and Turkey, his abstract yet emotional style resonates deeply.
Synonyms:
- Sultan al-‘Ashiqin (Sultan of Lovers)
- The Mystic Poet
Antonyms:
- Mundane Writer
- Secular Poet
Related Terms:
- Sufism: A form of Islamic mysticism that emphasizes introspection and spiritual closeness with God.
- Ghazal: A poetic form consisting of rhyming couplets and a refrain, each line sharing the same meter.
- Qasida: A form of long, rhymed epic poetry, which often laments or praises.
Exciting Facts:
- Ibn al-Farid’s Nazm al-Suluk (The Poem of the Sufi Way) consists of 760 verses, detailing a mystic’s journey toward God.
- His works have deeply influenced popular religious singers and modern authors, including Naguib Mahfouz, providing rich prose and song lyrics.
Quotations:
- “Nor the Bayadī blossom in purple-rose color, nor the dewy tear in the garden by the dandelion.”
- “Even wisdom declined when His visions appeared / And clouds gave rain from gleams of the beauty sublime.”
References and Suggest Literature:
- “The Wine Song of Ibn al-Farid” by Th. Emil Homerin.
- “Ibn al-Farid: Wine and the Mystical Path” by Th. Emil Homerin.
Inspirational Farewell: May the verses of Ibn al-Farid inspire your journey toward discovering the divine within and around you.
