Poetry in Praise of Prophetic Perfection

By Oludamini Ogunnaike

Book Description

Dr. Oludamini Ogunnaike unveils a profound spiritual tradition that has remained largely hidden from Western understanding. This scholarly exploration introduces readers to madih poetry, a vibrant genre of West African Arabic verse dedicated to praising the Prophet Muhammad, revealing its deep intellectual and mystical dimensions far beyond simple devotional expression.

The author demonstrates how these poetic works serve as sophisticated spiritual texts, deeply rooted in Quranic teachings, Hadith, and early Islamic literary traditions. More significantly, he illuminates the poetry's intimate connection to Sufi mysticism, showing how these verses embody complex doctrines of cosmology, ontology, and epistemology that guide seekers toward spiritual realization.

Central to this tradition is the concept of the Perfect Human and the attainment of the Praiseworthy Station, with the Prophet Muhammad representing the ultimate example of human potential fulfilled. Ogunnaike reveals how these poems both describe and actively facilitate this spiritual transformation, serving as vehicles for inner development and divine connection.

The book offers extensive translations of poetic excerpts alongside original Arabic texts, allowing readers to experience both the intellectual content and devotional power of these works. A comprehensive appendix presents complete poems from this influential tradition.

For spiritual seekers and students of Islamic mysticism, this work opens a doorway to understanding how sacred poetry can serve as both artistic expression and transformative spiritual practice.