Extract from the “Diwan” of Al-Makzoun Al-Sinjari (Beginning of the 13th Century)

Abstract

The presenting appeal to the poetic heritage of the medieval mystic poet, emir, sheikh al- Makzoun al-Sinjari (c. 1188–1240) is undertaken for the first time in Russian oriental studies. The proposed translation from the Arabic fragment of his poetic work “Divan” is supplied with an introductory article giving an idea of the degree of study in world science of the literary and theological work of this Nusayri figure. Based on the analysis of the specific terms, a conclusion is made about the deep Sufi roots of the poetry of Makzoun. In the poem, the central concept is loving intimacy to God - a connection or coupling (wasl, wisal) with a clear erotic connotation. This meaning approach it to the biblical book “Song of Songs”, where the deep love relationship of the human soul and God is also clothed in an erotic form rich in metaphors. Makzoun relied in his poetry on samples of Arabic love lyrics transferring them to the realm of God-seeking. As a representative of Sufism, Makzoun uses words in special meanings, for example, the designation of the “parts” of the heart or soul – qalb, fu’ad. Some concepts (sabr, hizn, wajd, qabd, bast), in addition to the basic meanings, can denote “stations” (makamat) on the spiritual path of a Sufi. The religious meaning of the love qasida is revealed for one practicing in a mystical Muslim way, acquiring a special religious content. Fragments from Makzoun 's “Divan” may have been performed at Sufi musical festive gatherings or may have been part of a Nusayri religious practice.