“The Intellect is the Essence of the Human”: The Arabic Poem of the Intellect (Qaṣīdat al-ʿAql) by the Indian Fatimid-Ṭayyibī Dāʿī al-Muṭlaq Sayyidna Taher Saifuddin (1888–1965)

Abstract The 177-verse Arabic Poem of the Intellect ( Qaṣīdat al-ʿAql ) composed by Indian Fatimid-Ṭayyibī Dāʿī al-Muṭlaq Sayyidna Taher Saifuddin (d. 1385/1965) breaks new ground in substance and form. In form, poem creatively amalgamates genres qaṣīdah (poem), risālah (treatise), waṣiyyah (testament) to produce an eloquent innovative hybrid text. content, it uniquely combines a philosophical exposition on Islamic theology ethics with road map living Pure Life. After opening frame that provides foundation, poem’s three large thematic sections draw Qurʾan, Prophet’s Hadith, sermons Imam ʿAlī describe principles belief approach, articles character deeds, grounding both—abstract philosophy concrete instructions—in love for allegiance divine guides, Imams Dāʿīs, who are “God’s rope.” It has gentle tone, preaching harmony between all people earth, tranquility one’s life, cheerfulness positivity, atmosphere caring. closing section brings poet directly into reference, stating he, as incumbent Dāʿī, is himself manifestation God’s rope current time, those follow his guidance will return Paradise. present article window Saifuddin’s remarkable poem, translating analyzing against backdrop Fatimid Ṭayyibī theological works and, briefly, colonial post-colonial fabric early 20th century India, explore significant largely unknown chapter poetry.