Divine Love and Mystical Quest: Sufi Influences in the Poetry of Allama Iqbal and Kazi Nazrul Islam
Muhammad Iqbal and Kazi Nazrul Islam
Abstract
Abstract
This scholarly study delves into the exploration of Sufi influences in the poetry of Allama Iqbal and Kazi Nazrul Islam, focusing specifically on themes of divine love and mystical quest. Both poets, belonging to distinct cultural and geographical contexts—Iqbal from the Indian subcontinent and Nazrul from Bengal—express profound spiritual insights rooted in Sufi philosophy and tradition. The research employs a comparative analytical approach to examine how these two poets articulate and interpret concepts such as divine love (ishq) and the mystical journey (suluk) within their respective poetic oeuvres. Central to the analysis are the poetic symbols, metaphors, and allegories used by Iqbal and Nazrul to convey their spiritual experiences and insights, which often resonate with classical Sufi literature. Through a close examination of select poems from both poets, the study aims to highlight their shared reverence for spiritual unity (tawhid), the yearning for divine proximity (uns), and the transformative power of love in attaining spiritual enlightenment. Additionally, the research explores how their interpretations of Sufi concepts reflect broader socio-cultural and religious influences of their times, contributing to a deeper understanding of the universal appeal and enduring relevance of Sufi themes in poetry. Ultimately, this comparative analysis seeks to illuminate the nuanced ways in which Allama Iqbal and Kazi Nazrul Islam integrate Sufi influences into their poetic expressions of divine love and mystical quest, enriching our appreciation of their contributions to both literary traditions and spiritual discourse.