Balagh al-'Ula bi Kamalihi

Nasta'liq calligraphy of the poem of Balgh al-'ula by Ghulam Husayn Amirkhani

Balagh al-ʿulā bi kamālihi (Arabic: بَلَغَ العُلیٰ بِکَمالِه) is a poem by Sa'di Shirazi praising the Prophet Muhammad (s). The preface of Gulistan presents this poem in Arabic as either a two-verse or a one-verse poem. Sa'di Shirazi praises the Prophet (s) in the opening verse, acknowledging him as the most perfect being who illuminates the darkness with his light. In the second verse, Sa'di regards all of the Prophet's (s) qualities as positive and sends blessings upon him and his progeny.

This particular poem is widely considered one of Sa'di's most remarkable works. It is regarded as an expression of his love for Prophet Muhammad (s). Furthermore, Sa'di's mention of the Prophet's family (a) in this and other poems is viewed as a sign of his Shi'a inclination.

Many works of prose and poetry were influenced by the poem "Balagh al-'ula" following its release. Some have gone so far as to name their books " Balagh al-'ula bi kamalihi" in its honor.

This poem has been a source of inspiration for many art forms, including paintings, calligraphic works, and tapestries. It has gained immense popularity among Muslims and is frequently recited during various ceremonies and gatherings.

Translation

He reached the highest place through his perfection
He drove out the darkness through his beauty
Beautified were all his characteristics
Send blessings upon him and his family

"Balagh al-'ula bi kamalihi" is a poem by Sa'di Shirazi that praises the Prophet (s). The poem is presented in the preface of Gulistan.

Poet

The poem "Balagh al-'ula" is one of Sa'di's most remarkable works. It is regarded as an expression of his love for Prophet Muhammad (s). Some believe this poem is one of the most unique poems ever written to praise the Prophet Muhammad (s). By citing relevant verses and traditions, some researchers consider that Sa'di has introduced the Prophet (s) in the best manner and with the most succinct expressions in this poem. Sa'di mentions Prophet Muhammad's family (a) toward the end of the poem; this theme also appears in several of his other poems. Some people interpret this as proof of his Shi'a inclinations.

Place and Reflections

The poem "Balagh al-'ula" holds a highly regarded position in the literary works of others, and its impact can be found in three different areas: texts, artistic productions, and general literature:

In Texts

This poem has been frequently used in the qasidas (odes) of Iranian poets and writers like Rayhan Allah Nakha'i Gulpayigani (d. 1412/1991) and Muhammad Taqi Kirmani (d. 1215/1800-1). Non-Iranian authors, such as Zafar Ali Khan (d. 1956) from Pakistan, have also incorporated this poem into their literary works. Others have also used Sa'di's poetic style to compose similar poems praising the Prophet (s) based on the meter and rhyme of "Balagh al-'ula." This particular poem has also been employed in prose to illustrate the characteristics of the Prophet (s) and the Imams (a). Some writers have titled their literary pieces "Balagh al-'ula bi kamalihi."

In Artistic Productions

Inspired by the poem "Balagh al-'ula," calligraphers and painters have produced works of art. The calligraphy of Balagh al-'ula by Mirza Muhammad Rida Kalhur in 1298/1881 and the calligram piece by Isma'il Jalayir are noteworthy examples. The calligraphic text of this poem has been woven into rug designs, and the poem has also been inscribed on the walls of some historical monuments.

In People's General Literature

The poem "Balagh al-'ula" has also entered popular literature; It is chanted during the celebration of the Prophet's birth and even in mourning for Imam al-Husayn (a) in Muharram. This couplet of Sa'di is commonly used not only by ordinary people but also by Dervishes in a particular manner. Also, in some mosques in Kashmir, the poem is recited with loud voices.