The Islamic Research Institute (IRI) of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) held a scholarly session titled “Shu‘ar-e-Iqbal Mein Nuqoosh-e-Seerat ﷺ” (Traces of the Prophet’s Biography in Iqbal’s Poetry) to highlight the deep connections between Allama Iqbal’s verses and the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The session was chaired by Dr Abdul Rauf Rafiqui, Director, Iqbal Academy Pakistan, while the guest of honour was Prof Dr Muhammad Akram, Director General of the Shari‘ah Academy, IRI. The keynote address was delivered by Prof Dr Habib-ur-Rehman Asim, Head of the Iqbal Chair, Bahria University Islamabad. Participants were welcomed by Prof Dr Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Director General, IRI.
Proceedings opened with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an, followed by na‘t recitation by Nasir Farid.
- Prof Dr Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq underscored the Institute’s role in promoting Islamic teachings and its contributions to social reconstruction through Seerah studies.
- Prof Dr Muhammad Akram discussed the enduring relevance of the Prophet’s biography and Iqbal’s message for the Muslim world, stressing that Iqbal’s poetry continues to guide contemporary Muslims.
- Prof Dr Habib-ur-Rehman Asim illuminated the spiritual and intellectual bond Iqbal forged with the Seerah, noting how this connection underpins Muslim revival.
- Dr Abdul Rauf Rafiqui highlighted the Seerah motifs in poems such as “Shikwa,” “Jawab-e-Shikwa,” and “Zabur-e-Ajam,” explaining that Iqbal drew inspiration from the Prophet’s life to stir passion, zeal, and action within the ummah.
Citing the famous line “Khudā bandē se khud pūchhe batā terī razā kyā hai” (“Let God Himself ask His servant: ‘Tell Me, what do you truly desire?’”), he called it one of the loftiest Seerah-inspired messages in Iqbal’s oeuvre. Dr. Rafiqui added that Iqbal Academy Pakistan plans further research programs and publications to convey these Seerah-infused works to the younger generation.
The event concluded with Sahibzada Muhammad Qamar-ul-Haq, President of Jamia Muhammadi Sharif, Chiniot, expressing gratitude to the organizers and attendees. Scholars, students, and faculty members participated in large numbers, agreeing that such gatherings play a vital role in bringing Iqbal’s message to the new generation.