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
