The Qasida Muhammadiya is a poetic ode dedicated to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is a classical form of devotional poetry in Arabic, praising the Prophet’s virtues, character, and significance in the Islamic tradition. The qasida (an Arabic term for a formal, structured poem) has been a powerful tool for expressing love, veneration, and spiritual longing for the Prophet.

 Core Themes of Qasida Muhammadiya

1. Praise of the Prophet (Madh-e-Rasool):  
   The poem glorifies the Prophet Muhammad as the greatest of all creation, a source of mercy, and the epitome of perfection. It often highlights his qualities, such as compassion, wisdom, and leadership.

2. Intercession (Shafa’a):  
   Many lines in the qasida appeal for the Prophet’s intercession on the Day of Judgment, reflecting the belief in his role as an intercessor for humanity.

3. Expression of Love and Devotion:  
   The poem is filled with deep expressions of love and longing for the Prophet. The poet often describes the spiritual connection and yearning to be near him, spiritually and physically.

4. Divine Light (Nur-e-Muhammadi):  
   Some versions emphasize the concept of Nur-e-Muhammadi (the light of Muhammad), presenting the Prophet as a pre-existent and eternal light created by Allah before the rest of creation.

5. Miracles and Superiority:  
   The qasida often recounts the miracles (mu'jizat) of the Prophet and his superiority over other prophets and creation.

 Famous Examples

While there is no single, universally recognized Qasida Muhammadiya, various poets have written poems that fall under this category. Among the most celebrated examples is Qasida al-Burda ("The Poem of the Mantle") by Imam Al-Busiri, which praises the Prophet extensively and is recited worldwide in Islamic gatherings.

 Purpose and Legacy

The Qasida Muhammadiya serves as a means of:  
1. Strengthening Faith: By recounting the Prophet’s attributes, it reinforces the believers' love and admiration for him.  
2. Spiritual Connection: Reciting or listening to the qasida is believed to bring blessings, peace, and a sense of nearness to the Prophet.  
3. Cultural Identity: These poems are often integral to Islamic devotional practices and are recited in gatherings, particularly during celebrations like Mawlid (the Prophet's birthday).

In summary, the Qasida Muhammadiya is a heartfelt and reverent expression of love for the Prophet Muhammad, intertwining theology, devotion, and poetry to inspire and elevate the faith of believers.

Qamarun & Muhammadiya at a Mawlid in Birmingham 2015

Manaqib Nashids