Maqam
Definition and Usage
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Maqam in Sufism: The term “maqam” (Arabic: مقام, Turkish: makam) refers to the stages or degrees that a Sufi passes through on the path to spiritual enlightenment and the experience of divine reality. These stations are attained through personal effort, as contrasted with “ḥāl” (state; Arabic: حال, Turkish: hal), which is bestowed as a gift from God. Each maqam represents a specific level of spiritual development and ethical behavior, guiding the Sufi towards ultimate union with the Divine. The attainment of maqamat (plural of maqam) requires the guidance and supervision of a spiritual mentor known as a shaykh. The number and order of maqamat can vary between different Sufi orders.
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Maqam in Arabic Music: In the context of traditional Arabic music, “maqam” is a system of melodic modes used for composing and improvisation. It involves a complex set of rules that dictate the structure, scale, and mode of the piece, including the beginning, ending, and main notes. This system allows for a wide array of emotional expressions and is fundamental to Arabic music theory.
Etymology
- The word “maqam” comes from the Arabic root “q-w-m” ( قام ), which means “to stand” or “to stay,” referring to a station or position.
Translations
- Arabic: مقام (maqām)
- Turkish: makam
Context in Sufism
Structure of Maqam in Sufism
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Achievement through Human Effort: Unlike ḥāl, which is thought to come without personal endeavor, maqam requires significant and deliberate effort.
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Stages of Development: These stages often include inner experiences, ethical improvement, and closeness to God.
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Guidance by Shaykh: The progress through maqamat is monitored by a spiritual mentor, usually an experienced Sufi master.
Context in Arabic Music
Structure of Maqam in Arabic Music
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Scaled and Mode System: Each maqam prescribes a specific sequence of notes and intervals.
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Melodic Organization: Determines the overall structure of melody creation and improvisation within a defined scale.
Further Reading
- “The Station of No Station: Open Secrets of the Sufis” by Al-Suhrawardi: A detailed exploration of the maqām in spiritual practice and its significance in Sufi life.
- “Music of the Arabs” by Habib Hassan Touma: An expansive examination of the maqām system in Arabic music, its theory, and practical application.
Takeaways
- In Sufism, “maqam” denotes stages on the path to divine proximity, achieved via discipline and human effort, with significant emphasis on the mentor-student relationship.
- In Arabic music, “maqam” serves as a musical mode fundamental to melody composition and improvisation, embodying a rich tradition of musical expression.
Conclusion
“Maqam” is a multifaceted term bridging spirituality and art within Islamic culture. It manifests as crucial stages in the spiritual journey of Sufis and as a foundational structure in traditional Arabic music, embodying the depth and richness of Islamic intellectual and artistic life. Recognizing its dual significance offers a deeper understanding of its role in both spiritual practices and cultural traditions.
