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The Quran => Q&As with Joseph Islam - Information Only => Topic started by: Reader Questions on October 18, 2012, 10:04:00 AM

Title: Poets Condemned by the Quran
Post by: Reader Questions on October 18, 2012, 10:04:00 AM
Br. Joseph:

Salam.  I am requesting you to please refer Sura Shuara 26: 224, 225, 226:  From these ayaths, it appears that Allah does not like poets.  Is it wrong to recite or read poems for mental satisfaction even though we know some are imagination ?  Is it wrong for us to attend cultural functions where poems and musics are played ? I understand many verses of Quran itself are some sort of poem.  I also understand that Prophet Daud (PBUH) had wonderful voice and used to sing with birds while phrasing Allah (SWT).   Please let me know your opinion.  Regards.
Title: Re: Poets Condemned by the Quran
Post by: Joseph Islam on October 18, 2012, 10:07:47 AM
Salamun Alaikum.

The Quran does encourage believers to speak words which are straight to the point, well directed, true, just, and appropriate (qawlan sadeedan) 33:70, 4:9.

Indeed, some poetry can be at times intentionally ambiguous and beguiling. However, I am not sure that the Quran intends to condemn 'all' poets out of hand as an exception is also noted by verse 26:227, that implies that some poets can be righteous people, believe, do good deeds and can engage in the remembrance of God.

026.227 (part)
"Except those who believe, work righteousness, engage much in the remembrance of God ..."

There is good, sensible poetry as there is sensible, beautiful singing and good speech. In all things as believers we should strive to seek the best. The Quran encourages moderation.  However, in general, you are correct that the Quran seems to distance itself from poetry in general. This may be a strong cue for believers to remain vigilant when it comes to poetry, or at least certain kinds of deliberately ambiguous poetry.

I hope that helps, God willing.
Joseph.
Title: Re: Poets Condemned by the Quran
Post by: Joseph Islam on March 10, 2014, 08:57:03 PM
Dear respected readership,

May peace be with you all.

Please see an article on this topic.

POETRY FROM A QURAN'S PERSPECTIVE AND A HISTORIC SURVEY
http://quransmessage.com/articles/poetry%20FM3.htm