Description
“Shikwa” by Allama Iqbal is a poem that voices the complaint of Muslims to God about their decline and suffering, contrasting their past glory with their present weakness. The poem questions why God no longer favors Muslims, despite their historical sacrifices for Islam, while others have gained power. It laments that the followers of the Prophet have become apathetic and divided, prompting a need to reawaken their faith and loyalty.Â
- The complaint:Â The poem argues that Muslims have upheld their end of a covenant with God through devotion and sacrifice, but God is not reciprocating with divine favor.
- Past vs. present: It vividly contrasts the achievements of early Muslims—who conquered lands and spread God’s name—with the current state of modern Muslims, who are depicted as weak, complacent, and divided.
- Cause of decline:Â The poem suggests Muslims have become distracted by worldly concerns, leading to a loss of spiritual connection and unity.
- A call to action:Â “Shikwa” is a lament that also serves as a call for Muslims to reawaken their faith, unite, and re-embrace their spiritual and historical role as leaders.
- Part of a dialogue:Â It is often discussed alongside its companion poem, “Jawab-e-Shikwa” (the “Answer to the Complaint”), where God’s response explains that the decline is the fault of the Muslims themselves for straying from the path of righteousness
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