ALİ ŞİR NEVAÎ BEYİTLERİNDE KULLUK ŞUURU

Abstract

This article examines Alisher Navoi’s exceptional role in the history of literature, society, culture, and Sufism, emphasizing his artistic mastery, intellectual contributions, and ethical virtues. Profoundly knowledgeable in the sciences of the Quran, Hadith, Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), theology (kalam), Sufism, history, and literature, Navoi infused his scholarly and spiritual heritage into his works and poetry. His couplets, rich in wisdom, metaphysical depth, and transformative insight, serve as repositories of enlightenment and esoteric knowledge.
In addition to his literary achievements, Navoi demonstrated sincerity and integrity in his state duties and social endeavors, attaining remarkable success. Renowned for his virtuous character, benevolence, and philanthropy, he acted as a patron of the arts while providing support to the impoverished and marginalized. His philosophy and way of life became an exemplary model, leaving behind not only a literary legacy but also a spiritual inheritance as a paragon of moral excellence.
Drawing lessons from history, Navoi sought to utilize his time effectively, illuminating the future with his knowledge and experience. His unwavering sense of "servitude awareness" (ubudiyyah), deeply rooted in his faith as a devoted servant of Allah (c.c.) and a member of the Ummah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), shaped his worldview. He possessed a profound understanding of the realities of existence—encompassing the material world, the Hereafter, the cosmos, and divine creation—making this awareness his most defining and essential characteristic.
At the heart of human purpose lies the duty of servitude (ʿubūdiyyah) to the Creator. This study critically examines select couplets from Navoi’s poetry that exemplify his profound consciousness of servitude, shedding light on its philosophical, theological, and literary dimensions.