Mathnawi

Definition and Overview

Mathnawi (مثنوی) refers to a genre of classical poetry written in rhyming couplets, particularly flourishing in Persian literature though also found in other Oriental languages. This form of poetry often includes themes of heroism, romanticism, and the metaphorical journey of being separated from and eventually reuniting with a beloved.

Etymology and Translations

The word “Mathnawi” derives from the Arabic term “مثنوي” (Mathnawi), meaning “couplet” or “pair.” It is closely related to the Persian word “مثنوی” and the Turkish “Mesnevi.”

Historical Context and Significance

Mathnawi gained immense popularity in the Islamic Golden Age, particularly among mystics and Sufis. These poems are commonly based on epic themes and allegories used to explore spiritual truths. The Genre holds a pivotal role in Sufi literature and Islamic intellectual culture, being seen as a method to discuss complex metaphysical and theological ideas in an accessible form.

Notable Authors and Works

Mathnawi poems are renowned for their depth, narrative style, and inspirational content. Some prominent authors who have excelled in this genre include:

Jalal al-Din Rumi (d. 1273)

Perhaps the most famous contributor to the Mathnawi genre, his work “Mathnawi-i Ma’nawi” (Spiritual Couplets) consists of six books that weave together 25,000 verses filled with Sufi philosophical insights and teachings.

Abul Majd Majdud Sanai (d. 1131)

An early pioneer in mystical Persian poetry, Sanai’s work ‘The Walled Garden of Truth’ (Hadiqat al-Haqiqah) explores themes of divine love and moral rectitude.

Farid al-Din Attar (d. 1220)

His notable Mathnawi, “Conference of the Birds” (Mantiq al-Tayr), symbolizes the journey of the soul towards understanding and unity with the Divine.

Muhammad Iqbal (d. 1938)

Iqbal, a philosopher, poet, and politician, infused his Mathnawi with themes of spirituality and urged his readers towards self-awareness and self-empowerment.

Recommended Reading

• “Rumi: The Book of Love: Poems of Ecstasy and Longing” by Coleman Barks
• “The Conference of the Birds” by Farid al-Din Attar, translated by Afkham Darbandi and Dick Davis
• “Iqbal: Poet, Philosopher, and His Researchers” by Iqbal Singh Sevea

Takeaways and Conclusion

Mathnawi, as both a artistic form and spiritual endeavor, underscores the rich lyrical traditions available within Islamic cultures. These poetic works do not merely entertain but also carry significant moral and theological underpinnings. The prominence of mathnawi is a testament to its ability to convey profound, timeless truths through the vehicle of structured verse.

Considering the impactful works of poets like Rumi, Sanai, and Iqbal, the genre of Mathnawi showcases the interweaving of literary excellence with mystical exploration, solidifying a unique and irreplaceable space within the historical canon of Islamic literature.

By embracing mathnawi poems, readers can delve into the historical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of Islamic thought, enriching their understanding of its profound literary heritage.