Kosida By Shaykhul Islam Alhaj Ibrahima Niass Al-Kaulakhy At-Tijjaniy
English Translation by Imam Ahmed Tijani Ben Omar (USA)
Reviewed by the Irshadul Ummah Committee, ABU Zaria (2020)
In the poetic landscape of Islamic mysticism, one name echoes with enduring reverence: Shaykh Ibrahima Niass. A prolific scholar, spiritual guide, and beacon of the Tijaniyyah Sufi order, his qasā’id (spiritual odes) penetrate deeply into the heart of divine love and detachment from the ephemeral world. One such masterpiece is “Swāriman Wasla L Ghawānī” – a spiritually rich poem that not only captures the burning passion for the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), but also reflects the inner struggle, rejection of worldly distractions, and surrender to divine proximity.
This blog post delves into the themes, meanings, and sublime spiritual messages encapsulated in this poetic gem.
1. A Call for Detachment from Worldly Pleasures
The poem opens with a powerful invitation to withdraw from worldly attractions such as beauty pageants, music, and material pleasures. The poet exhorts the seeker to discard illusions and pursue spiritual fulfillment, likening amusements to mirages that fade in the face of eternal truth.
“Be cut off from all attachments and attractions of Beauty Pageants… discard the vain desire for attractive and gorgeous women…”
The call to spiritual awakening is immediate and uncompromising, reminding believers that worldly grandeur is fleeting and empty.
2. The Primordial Status of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
Shaykh Ibrahima Niass delves into profound metaphysical truths: the pre-existence and eternal significance of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Before creation, before time and space, the Prophet was chosen.
“For he (RasuuluLLaah) was the Divinely Chosen for the entire Humanity; prior to the manifestation of All Creations…”
This is a classical theme in Islamic metaphysics known as al-ḥaqīqah al-muḥammadiyyah (the Muhammadan Reality), asserting the cosmic primacy of the Prophet in the Divine plan.
3. Love for the Prophet as Spiritual Sustenance
The verses that follow weave a tapestry of intimate and all-encompassing love for the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). His love becomes the poet’s food, drink, wealth, comfort, and ultimate refuge.
“His Love had always been my Sustenance and my Drinks… He is my Trustworthy Friend and My Secured Fortifications.”
“He (Muhammad SAWS) is my Sole Reliable Companion… His Love is my residential Quarters and lofty Palaces…”
This section is rich with metaphor, showing how spiritual love transcends physical needs and becomes the true source of nourishment for the soul.
4. Rejection, Tribulations, and Spiritual Isolation
No spiritual journey is without hardship. Shaykh Ibrahima vividly narrates the trials he faced — abandonment by friends, public humiliation, and even physical assaults — all because of his unwavering devotion to the Prophet.
“They forcibly drove me out from my place of residence… they shredded my body physically and publicly…”
Despite these adversities, his heart remains unshaken. His resolve is a testimony to the depth of his love — a love that is not dependent on acceptance by society but firmly rooted in divine connection.
5. Divine Protection and Sufficiency in the Prophet’s Love
Through rejection, the poet finds liberation. By depending solely on Allah and His Messenger, he transcends fear and finds solace.
“I am not at all afraid of the evil scheme and machinations of enemies…
I am satisfied by the Love of the Perfect Messenger…”
The poem thus becomes a declaration of self-sufficiency through divine connection — a concept known in Sufism as al-istiknāʾ biLlāh (being enriched by Allah alone).
6. Prophetic Praise and Spiritual Affirmation
In the final verses, Shaykh Ibrahima intensifies his eulogy for the Prophet, asking that blessings and peace be continuously showered upon him and his family, who have themselves shunned worldly distractions.
“All divine blissful benedictions… be showered upon the Perfect Man Ta-ha…
…and his progeny and virtuous companions, all of whom have cut themselves off from the attractions of beauty pageants.”
This ending not only affirms the Prophet’s elevated rank but encourages the reader to emulate such detachment and spiritual devotion.
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Conclusion: A Poem of Love, Pain, and Triumph
“Swāriman Wasla L Ghawānī” is far more than a poem — it is a spiritual roadmap. It teaches the seeker to:
- Reject worldly distractions for divine truth.
- Love the Prophet Muhammad with unwavering intensity.
- Endure rejection with patience.
- Trust in divine sufficiency.
- Constantly remember and praise the Prophet.
Allahu Akbar wa Lillahil Hamd.
This poem, when read, recited, or sung, resonates with the pain of detachment, the sweetness of love, and the spiritual ecstasy of reunion. It is no surprise that such a qasīda continues to inspire hearts across generations.
Watch the full recitation and reflection on our YouTube channel.
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