THE  STAR

Introduction
This short and apparently simple nature poem contains the very important subject of the origin, nature and end of matter. It has been controversial since the time of Aristotelian logic whether matter is h«dith or qadâm. Sophisticated arguments exist on both sides. However, far from solving the problem they have left the readers confused and arguing with each other.  This is one of the enigmas for comprehending which Divine guidance is needed. The Holy Qur’«n states that (i) matter  is no eternal but has been created by God, is constantly  changing in form and is being re-created, and (ii) though matter has not been destroyed since  its creation it will be destroyed on the Last Day. (The Holy Qur’«n  10:4; 14:48; 17:49; 21:104; 27:60-66; 29:19-20; and 35:16.) The climax of the thesis is reached in the last verse of the poem. ‘All«mah Iqb«l has dealt with this matter in several poems. Cf.

(196) This universe is perhaps still being completed
            Because the call of  ”Kun fa Yakën ” is still echoing

(Appendix III.)

(197) Mere optical illusion is this quietude
           Restless is every speck of the universe

(Appendix III, No. 29)

The constant appearance of new forms of life at all taxonomic levels of plants and animals and the constant appearance of new stars. constellations and galaxies testify to the correctness of the first verse. Similarly, the constant movement of matter along fixed orbits from the sub-atomic elementary particles to the planets, stars, constellations and galaxies supports the second verse.

Translation
Are you afraid of the moon or the dawn?
Are you conscious of the end of beauty?

Are you afraid of being robbed of light’s wealth?
Are you afraid of annihilation like the spark?

The sky has settled you far from the earth
It has wrapped you in gold’s mantle like the moon

                It is outrageous that your feeble life is still in fear
                Your whole night passes in trembling with fear ¹

O shining traveler! This habitation is strange
The rise of one leads to the fall of the other

The birth of one sun is the death of a myriad stars
Annihilation’s sleep is the ecstasy of life’s wine

Flower bud’s departure is the secret of flower’s birth
Is annihilation life’s end, or is the equivalent of life!

                Quiescence is difficult in the universe
                Only change is permanent in the universe

Explanatory Notes
1. The reply to the questions in the first three verses is obviously in the negative. In that case the fourth verse expresses surprise at the conditions stated in it. The amazement is satisfied in the last four verses according to which all creation, irrespective of it’s beauty and station in the universe is ephemeral and is destined to die or be annihilated.