التحليل الفني لقصيدة البردة للإمام البوصيري: دراسة أدبية وصوفية

Topic: A Literary and Sufi Analysis of Imam al-Busiri’s Poem “Al-Burda”

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive literary and Sufi analysis of the famous Arabic poem Al-Burda by Imam al-Busiri, a masterpiece in the tradition of Islamic devotional poetry. The study begins with a biographical introduction to Imam al-Busiri, highlighting his life, education, and spiritual inclinations, as well as his close association with the Sufi tradition. It then explores the historical and spiritual background of the poem, including the miraculous circumstances of its composition, particularly the dream in which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ appeared to the poet, leading to his recovery from illness. The paper offers a general overview of Al-Burda, discussing its total number of verses and thematic divisions, such as love for the Prophet ﷺ, repentance, praise of the Prophet, miracles, the Prophet’s birth, the Isra’ and Mi‘raj, jihad, and supplication. A detailed stylistic analysis follows, covering the eloquence, rhetorical devices, musicality of the verse, meter (bahr al-basīt), rhyme, and rhythm. Furthermore, the research delves into the symbolic and mystical meanings embedded in the poem, such as the portrayal of love for the Prophet ﷺ as a path to divine proximity, the concept of annihilation in the Prophet’s essence (fanā’ fi al-rasūl), and expressions of humility and repentance. The study also examines the poem’s rhetorical imagery, including simile, metaphor, antithesis, and wordplay, while highlighting specific examples from the text. Finally, the paper discusses the global reception and influence of Al-Burda, noting its recitation in religious gatherings worldwide, its central role in Mawlid celebrations, its translations into numerous languages, and its impact on later poets, most notably Ahmed Shawqi’s Nahj al-Burda. The conclusion summarizes the key findings, emphasizes the poem’s universal spiritual message, and reflects on its relevance in the modern era as a bridge between literary beauty and spiritual devotion. This paper demonstrates that Al-Burda is not only an artistic masterpiece but also a timeless spiritual text that continues to inspire devotion, unity, and reverence for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ across diverse cultures.