Rabi'a Basri

Selected Poems

Paul Smith

Dive into the ethereal world of Rabi'a Basri: Selected Poems by Paul Smith, where each verse beckons like stars twinkling in the vastness of the night. This collection isn't merely poetry; it's a profound exploration of the soul, an invitation to embark on a spiritual odyssey that transcends both time and culture.

Rabi'a al-Basri, a pivotal figure in Sufi mysticism, was not only a poet but a revolutionary soul whose words echo the struggles and joys of human existence. Born in Basra, Iraq, in the 8th century, she emerged from a tumultuous life-having been sold into slavery and abandoned to the whims of fate-to become a saintly icon of love and devotion. The poems curated by Smith breathe life into her poignant insights, illustrating a journey of petal-soft vulnerability juxtaposed against an unyielding quest for divine love. 💫

Each piece in this collection resonates with emotional depth and spiritual fervor, effortlessly weaving themes of longing, devotion, and the intoxicating pain of love. It is in these verses that Rabi'a's voice transcends the ages, compelling you to confront your own beliefs and desires. Through her words, you'll find more than just poetry; you'll uncover a mirror reflecting your own heartache and joy. Her famous lines "I could not bear to be in love, when You are my only love" echo the sentiments of countless seekers, igniting a flame of passion and yearning within.

Like the rhythmic cadence of a heart, the poems ebb and flow, inviting readers to experience the tender intricacies of love-a love that is both earthly and divine. Rabi'a's masterful use of metaphors creates scenes that blur the lines between the mundane and the mystical, urging you to lose yourself in the delightful chaos of her verses. 🌹

Readers have marveled at this collection, with many praising Smith's ability to preserve the raw essence of Rabi'a's voice while making it accessible for modern audiences. However, not all reactions have been universal. Critics argue about the nuances lost in translation-some feel that the depth of Rabi'a's original Arabic is diluted, rendering her passionate pleas into mere shadows of their vibrant selves. Yet, there lies beauty in the very act of translating such a timeless spirit; it opens the gates for more souls to experience poetry that could transform their lives.

The historical context surrounding Rabi'a's life cannot be ignored; amidst socio-political turmoil in the 8th century, she challenged the norms of her time. This collection not only serves as a window into her individual struggles but also reflects a broader societal quest for emancipation from strictures that bind the spirit. The passionate fervor with which she embraced her beliefs ignites a fire within, encouraging you to reflect on your own practices, devotion, and the transformative power of love. 🌍❤️

In an era where chaos often reigns supreme, Rabi'a's poems offer the antidote-an exploration of vulnerability that resonates deeply in our hearts. They demand you to confront your inner self, to acknowledge your deepest desires, and to embrace the beauty found within the agony of love.

So, allow yourself to be enveloped by the haunting melodies of Rabi'a Basri: Selected Poems-it's more than a book; it's an experience, a transcendental journey that will forever alter your perception of love, spirituality, and the intricacies of the human experience. Prepare for a thrilling ride through these pages; your soul is waiting to be awakened. 🌈✨️

📖 Rabi'a Basri: Selected Poems

✍ by Paul Smith

🧾 136 pages

2013

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