EVOLUTION

Introduction
This poem, though named Irtiq« or “Evolution” does not deal with the Darwinian theory of evolution. Also, “struggle for existence and survival of the fittest” which are important pillars on which this theory rests do not form the thesis of this poem. The central idea of the poem is that perfection is attained by struggle and going through trials and tribulations. It starts with the basic concept that the struggle between evil and virtue is eternal and perpetual. This is a very great consolation and a beacon of light for those engaged in the struggle for the Truth. Each subsequent verse deals with the method of perfection of one’s objects and details the procedure of struggle and hardships through which one has to go before attaining perfection. This theme is so dear to ‘All«mah Iqb«l that his works are replete with this idea to the extent that it can be called the raison d’etre for  his efforts. Cf.

(205)      The life not fired with the desire for revolution death is
                The struggle  for revolution  essence for nations’ life is

(Appendix III, No. 29)

It must also be understood that the purpose of adopting this theme was to infuse a new spirit in the dead body of the Muslim Ummah during the period of the lowest ebb in its history.

Translation
Struggle has  continued from eternity till the present day
Between the lamp of MuÅèaf«¹ and the spark of Bu Lahab²

Life is flame-tempered, high-minded and fervent
It’s nature is resolving difficulty, bearing cruelty

From the evening’s quietude till the morning’s song
There are many a stage of the midnight  wailing!

Struggle exists between the heat and  cold,  throbbing and shaping
From  the dark dust to the polished glass of £alab³!

The phenomena of making and  breaking, squeezing, heating and distilling
Exist between the drop of spring rain and the heat of the grape wine!

Nations live by this continuous struggle alone
This alone is the secret of the Arab nation’s struggle ⁴!

                                “The tavern-keepers making wine from the grape
                                Break the stars and construct the sun”

Explanatory Notes
1.MuÅèaf«- The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.)

2.Abë Lahab- He was one of the uncles of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) but was still one of the strongest enemies of him and of Islam.

3.£alab- £alab or Aleppo was a famous place for the manufacture of quality glassware.

4.Millat-i-`Arabâ- This refers to the early Muslims who struggled incessantly in the cause of God.