Capturing |Light|

Absolutely beautiful :) It seems that every culture and geographical location gives off its own unique type of spiritual fragrance. This is really soothing and you also get to see the beauty of South Africa.

A beautiful rendition by Talib al-Habib of arguably the most famous poem of all time, the Burda. He is singing the 7th chapter of the Burda, titled On the Ascension of the Prophet, Upon Him Be Prayers and Peace. The translation by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf follows below:

O best of those whose courtyards are sought by seekers of solace,

Hurrying on swift feet or riding on the backs of trailblazing camels!

O you who are the greatest sign for the discerning,

The most blessed gift of those desiring gain!

You soared by night from the near sanctuary to the Furthest,

The way a bright moon moves across a sky enveloped in darkness.

You spent the night ascending until you reached the station of “two bows’ lengths or nearer,”

A point of intimacy never before realized nor even dreamed of.

All the previous prophets and messengers gave precedence to you,

The way a generous host defers to a guest of honor.

Then you started out, penetrating the Seven Heavens

With them in procession behind you, and you their standard bearer,

Until you left no space of Divine presence for others to attain,

Nor any summit for seekers of heights to aspire to.

You achieved every station by rightful possession

Addressed by God with exaltation, a unique subject in heavenly syntax.

In this way you attained the Station of Arrival,

Veiled from the gaze of onlookers, a secret sealed in silence.

Thus you gathered every honor without peer,

And traversed every station in solitude.

What preeminence you have been entrusted with!

Past counting are all the blessings granted you!

Glad tidings for us, the people of Islam!

We have a pillar of providence, utterly imperishable.

You called us to God’s obedience. When He named you

“The most eminent of emissaries,” we became the noblest of nations! 

One of my favorite songs about loving the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Muslims for generations have expressed their love through poetry and song. This group singing is from Southern Yemen. Enjoy!