THE POETIC BRILLIANCE AND SPIRITUAL DEPTH: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF DR. IFTIKHAR-UL-HAQ ARQAM'S NA'AT POETRY

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive critical appreciation of the Na'at poetry (praise and veneration of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) penned by the esteemed contemporary poet and scholar, Dr. Iftikhar-ul-Haq Arqam. The study is bifurcated into two primary dimensions: thematic (فکری) and stylistic-technical (فنی).From a thematic perspective, Dr. Arqam’s poetry deeply reflects the eternal teachings of Islam, emphasizing absolute devotion, the divine status of Prophethood, obedience to the Holy Prophet ﷺ as a spiritual remedy, the concept of Rahmat-ul-Alameen (Mercy to the Worlds), and the finality of Prophethood (Khatm-e-Nubuwwat). His verses beautifully capture the profound connection between human salvation and adherence to the Prophetic path, while highlighting noble character, patience in the face of adversity, and reliance solely on the Almighty.Technically and stylistically, the poet demonstrates a remarkable mastery over traditional poetic forms, meters, and prosody (Bahr and Wazn). The analysis uncovers his adept employment of various literary devices and rhetorical figures (Sanai-e-Lafzi and Ma'navi), including Tashbih (Simile), Isti'ara (Metaphor), Laf-o-Nashr (Involution and Evolution), Tazad (Antithesis), Husn-e-Ta'lil (Poetic Causation), and Talmih (Allusion). Through a harmonious blend of sublime emotion, linguistic precision, and rhetorical elegance, Dr. Arqam establishes himself as a distinguished modern Na'at poet whose work bridges spiritual depth with artistic refinement.