QAñ`AH
Introduction
A
qaè`ah is a short poem in which the last word of the second hemistich of
each verse rhymes. In this poem ‘All«mah Iqb«l shows his frustration at the
condition of the self-seeking religious leaders of Muslim countries who destroy
the community for their own good. The reference to Egypt and India in the first
verse is not indicative of this condition being restricted to these two
countries. They have been used to meet poetic needs.
Translation
Yesterday a
desperate Lover was saying with wailing at the Prophet’s tomb
“The Egyptian and Indian Muslims dare destroying the Millat’s
foundation!
These pilgrims to the West’s sanctuary may fake our leadership
What bond do we have with those who have remained unacquainted with you?
Outrageous are these “self-seeking spiritual leaders”,
May God protect your Millat
They are promoting their own glory by destroying the Muslims
O Iqb«l who would listen to you, the congregation has changed
You are telling us these tales of the old in the new age