What is love?

Ancient Love

During the early Islamic period, love included three aspects: poetry, religious texts, and historical love, which illustrate the early Islamic context.

1) Quranic Reference

In the Holy Quran, many verses show love. The Holy Quran speaks about affection and mercy:

“And He places affection and mercy on you.” (Quran 30:21)

This verse emphasizes the importance of love in marital relationships.

“And We have enjoined upon man (care) for his parents.” (Quran 31:14)

These verses emphasize love and respect for parents and the importance of family love.

2) Early Islamic Poetry

Poetry was a significant part of Arabian culture before the early Islamic period. The famous poet “Imru al-Qais” wrote many ghazals about love and passion, showcasing deep emotions. Early Islamic Arabs conveyed messages through poetry. One famous love story is “Qays and Layla,” known as a true love story.

3) The Holy Prophet and Khadijah

The Holy Prophet and his wife also exemplify love and mutual respect. Khadijah was strong and brave, always supporting the Holy Prophet. Their relationship is a model of companionship and devotion. Many hadiths describe the Prophet’s gentle and loving nature.

4) Divine Love

One of the early Sufi mystics, Rabia al-Adawiyya, is famous for emphasizing the love of Allah. Her poetry reflects deep spiritual love. She advocated loving Allah for His sake alone, rather than out of fear of hell or desire for paradise. Poets like Rumi and Ibn Arabi also wrote extensively about divine love, reflecting Islamic thought and literature.

5) Stories

The early Islamic period features several stories of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, reflecting deep emotional and spiritual connections valued in Islamic culture.

Middle Ages

In the middle ages of Islam, love referenced many aspects. This era, known as the Islamic Golden Age, saw love playing an integral role in culture, religion, and intellectual currents. Some key aspects of middle era love are mentioned below:

1) Influence of Foreign Cultures

Foreign cultures also influenced the love of the Islamic world. The middle ages saw cultural exchanges with Byzantine, Persian, and Indian civilizations, impacting Islamic love.

2) Religious Context

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) is a great model of love and compassion. His honesty inspired many non-Muslims to love him.

3) Art and Music

In the middle ages, love stories were illustrated in paintings, showcasing famous romantic tales like Layla and Majnun. Paintings were a medium to express love. Music and lyrics also commonly featured love, providing entertainment.

4) Philosophical Context

Many middle age philosophers integrated love into their philosophy, considering it an essential part of human nature. Love is inherent in humans and depends on how we utilize it.

20th Century to Present

Love plays an important part in all eras of Islam. From the 20th century to the present, love encompasses many aspects, including globalization and modernity. This era is characterized by internet/media-based love, often neglecting Islamic rules of love and emulating foreign cultures.

1) Media’s Influence

Media has created physical distance among people. Earlier, people could interact and love each other, but media has kept them busy, leading to a decline in love and disconnection from Islamic values.