Nasheed Hub: Ya Talib al-Fana
The Nasheed Hub, an initiative of SeekersHub Global, aims to showcase the traditional Islamic art of nasheed, or Islamic devotional songs.
Ya Talib al-Fana (O You Who Seeks Annihilation Through Allah)
Ya Talib al-Fana, is the final poem in the series of the works of Shaykh Muhammad ibn al-Habib. It speaks to those who desire Allah fully.
The author begins by addressing the seekers directly, as “O you who seeks annihilation!” He then advises him to constantly be in remembrance of the name of Allah, devotedly and without distraction. If he makes Allah the object of his focus and devotion, all his other worries and concerns will be taken care of.
He then goes on to say that the seeker should make an effort to rid himself of distraction and other thoughts, since it will hinder him learning about Allah’s Divine Unity. The realisation of Allah’s Unity begins with remembrance of Allah and loving Him.
However, traversing the path cannot happen without a guide, and so the author congratulates the one who is able to find a living teacher. He mentions the qualities such a teacher must have: they must have devoted themselves completely to Allah, and made many nights prayers reciting His words.
Finally, the author says that all of our help comes from the Prophet, and sending blessings upon him, his family, and all those who call to him.
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About Nasheed Hub
Throughout the decades and civilisations of Islam, the vocal tradition, sometimes known as nasheed or devotional songs, were penned as a way of celebrating and giving thanks to Allah for the message of Islam, as well as for the Messenger himself.
These nasheeds were a way for people to turn towards their Lord in joyful celebration, rather than stringent routine. They were also tools to spread the message of Islam in a non-confrontational way. These nasheeds were able to reach out to those who were alienated or indifferent to the religion and the Muslim community, as well as to teach children who were too young for academic study.
These nasheeds originating from all corners of the Muslim world – from West Africa to Malaysia, from Turkey to Great Britian – mirror their own culture but all carry a common thread: love of Allah and His Messenger.
This series will explore the different nasheeds, penned by some of the great historical Muslim figures, poets, and scholars.
