Allama Iqbal, also known as Muhammad Iqbal, was a philosopher, poet, and politician. Who is considered one of the most significant figures in Urdu and Persian literature? He was born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot, Punjab, British India (now Pakistan) and died on April 21, 1938, in Lahore, Punjab, British India. Iqbal is best known for his poetry, which focused on spiritual and philosophical themes, and his contributions to the Indian independence movement. This article will provide a detailed biography and quotes of Allama Iqbal.
Early Life and Education
Allama Iqbal was born into a family of Kashmiri Brahmins who had converted to Islam. His father, Sheikh Noor Muhammad, was a tailor and a devout Muslim, while his mother, Imam Bibi, was a pious woman who had a profound influence on Iqbal’s spiritual and moral development. Iqbal received his early education from his father and later attended the Scotch Mission College in Sialkot, where he excelled in his studies.
Iqbal then went on to study at the Government College in Lahore, where he received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy, with honors. He then went to England to study law and philosophy at Cambridge University and later obtained a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Munich.
Poetry
Allama Iqbal’s poetry is considered to be one of the most significant contributions to Urdu and Persian literature. His poetry is characterized by its spiritual and philosophical themes and its use of imagery and metaphor. Iqbal’s poems often focus on the individual’s search for spiritual and moral guidance and the struggle for freedom and self-determination.
Some of Iqbal’s most famous works include Bang-e-Dra, Asrar-e-Khudi, Zarb-i-Kalim, Rumuz-i-Bekhudi, and Bal-i-Jibril. His poetry has been translated into many languages and has been praised for its depth, beauty, and relevance to contemporary issues.
Philosophy
Allama Iqbal was also a renowned philosopher whose ideas had a significant impact on Islamic philosophy and thought. He believed in the need for Muslims to develop a sense of individuality and self-determination and to reject the colonialist and imperialist ideologies that had dominated Muslim societies for centuries.
Iqbal’s philosophy emphasized the importance of the individual’s connection to God and the role of the human will in shaping one’s destiny. He believed that the Quran was a guide for all aspects of life and that the Islamic concept of Ijtihad (independent thinking) was essential for Muslims to navigate the challenges of the modern world.
Political Career
Allama Iqbal was also an active participant in the Indian independence movement and served as the president of the All India Muslim League from 1930 to 1938. He played a key role in the development of the idea of a separate Muslim state. Which led to the creation of Pakistan in 1947.
Iqbal’s political writings and speeches were characterize by his emphasis on Muslim unity and his belief in the need for Muslims to develop their own political and economic systems. He also advocated for greater education and economic development for Muslims, especially in the areas of science and technology.
Quotes of Allama Iqbal:
Here are a few of Allama Iqbal’s famous quotes along with translations:
"Khudi ko kar buland itna ke har taqdeer se pehle, Khuda bande se khud poochhe bata teri raza kya hai"
Translation:
Elevate your selfhood to such a degree that before every decree of fate, God himself asks you, what is your wish?
Explanation:
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and self-realization. Iqbal urges individuals to work on their personal development and elevate their selfhood to a level. Where they are in tune with their innermost desires and passions.
"Sitaron se aage jahan aur bhi hain, abhi ishq ke imtihan aur bhi hain"
Translation:
Beyond the stars are even more worlds, there are still more tests of love.
Explanation:
This quote suggests that the world is vast and there is much more to discover beyond what we currently know. It also implies that the pursuit of love is an ongoing journey that involves constant testing and learning.
"Zinda rahne ke liye teri qasam, ek mulk ki khatir, ek mulk ke naqsh-e-qadam ki khater"
Translation:
I swear by your life, for the sake of a country, for the sake of a country’s footprints.
Explanation:
This quote highlights the importance of patriotism and sacrifice for the greater good of the nation. Iqbal suggests that a strong sense of national identity and commitment to one’s country is essential for personal and collective growth and progress.
"Hai teri rahmaton ka saya meri zindagi par, ab tak meri khabar hai tujhe kahan tak hai pahunchi"
Translation:
The shadow of your mercy has always been upon my life, but I do not know how far I have reached.
Explanation:
This quote expresses gratitude towards God for his blessings and mercy. It also suggests that one can never truly know the extent of God’s grace. How far it has taken them in life.
"Khuda ne aaj tak us qaum ki halat nahi badli, na ho jiske hausle buland toot jaate hain"
Translation:
God has never changed the condition of a nation. Whose spirit has not been broken.
Explanation:
This quote emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Iqbal suggests that it is only through a strong sense of spirit and willpower. That a nation can overcome challenges and move towards progress and development.
