Naqi Rizvi

Would it not have been sufficient

for Allah, The Self Sufficient,

who chose Himself to be

introduced with His mercy,

to bestow the designation,

‘the mercy for all creation’

to you, Oh Muhammed

Ṣallāllāhu ʿalayhi wa-sallam.

But He did not stop just there.

He chose with deepest care

a designation even greater,

from the heart of The Creator.

How intensely were you loved

that He calls you my beloved,

my love, Oh Muhammed

Ṣallāllāhu ʿalayhi wa-sallam.

Can there be stronger emotion

that He says, ‘All of creation,

I created but for your sake;

what’s Mine–is yours to take.

In your pleasure am I pleased,

in your comfort am I eased,

my peace, Oh Muhammed

Ṣallāllāhu ʿalayhi wa-sallam’.

But the greatest designation

is that you are His reflection.

Would God have been unknown

if to us you were not shown?

Then what would being be

if even He we could not see?

Without you, Oh Muhammed

Ṣallāllāhu ʿalayhi wa-sallam.

I see you–then God I see

I see God–and then I see

Naqi Rizvi, a Toronto-based poet, began his poetic journey influenced by his father’s passion for Urdu poetry. While his roots lie in Urdu’s rich tradition, his North American upbringing channelled his expression into English. Naqi’s poetry delves into faith, spirituality, cultural experience and identity, often paying homage to Prophet Muhammed (saw) and his Household.

To read more of his work follow @naqisqalam on Instagram or contact him via email at RizviSyedNaqi@gmail.com