Faith in the Poetry of Asqar Mahkam

Abstract

General Background: Faith has been a central theme in religious and literary traditions, shaping individual and societal values. In Islamic thought, faith serves as the foundation of moral and ethical conduct, with profound influences on classical and Sufi literature. Specific Background: Asqar Mahkam, a prominent Uzbek poet, explores the theme of faith in his poetry, highlighting its erosion in contemporary society. His verses reflect the ideological and spiritual dilemmas of modern times, portraying faith as both a guiding light and a concept under threat. Knowledge Gap: While previous studies have explored the presence of faith in classical Islamic literature, limited research has examined its contemporary poetic manifestations, particularly in Uzbek literature. Aims: This study analyzes the artistic and ideological dimensions of faith in Asqar Mahkam’s poetry, investigating how he critiques social and religious misconceptions while reaffirming faith’s transformative power. Results: The poet employs metaphors, symbolism, and personification to depict faith as a diminishing yet essential force. His poetry reveals a dichotomy between true faith and its misinterpretations, illustrating the consequences of spiritual negligence. Novelty: This research provides a fresh perspective on Asqar Mahkam’s literary contributions, contextualizing his work within contemporary socio-religious discourse and demonstrating how his poetry serves as a medium for both critique and enlightenment. Implications: The findings contribute to broader discussions on faith in modern literature, emphasizing its role in shaping ethical consciousness and countering ideological distortions. Asqar Mahkam’s work urges readers to reflect on their spiritual values, advocating for a faith-driven yet socially engaged life.