Labib Mahfuj Chisty
In modern Muslim society, a new discussion has begun on meditation, remembrance and the love of Allah that comes from the depths of the heart. At the center of this discussion is an old yet ever-relevant practice—Sama and Qawwali and spiritual sounds. These sounds are not just music, but a kind of spiritual experience that knocks on the door of the heart, which can immerse a person in the love of Allah. In Sufism, Sama and Qawwali are a method that establishes a connection between the soul and the Creator through sound. In this article, we will look at the history of Sama and Qawwali, their spiritual aspects, Islamic recognition, and why their popularity among modern youth is constantly increasing.
- What is Sama?
The word “Sama” comes from the Arabic “samaa” which means “to listen”. In Sufism, Sama means that spiritual listening that knocks on the door of the heart and stirs the soul (spirit). Sama refers to meditative music. Dancing to the rhythm of the remembrance of Allah’s name (such as Maulana Rumi’s sonorous whirling) is the expression of the soul through poetry and ghazals. Sama is a kind of spiritual practice that draws the heart of the listener towards Allah. It is much more than external music—it is the inner music of the soul. - Origin and Historical Background of Qawwali
The word Qawwali comes from the Arabic “qawl” which means “utterance” or “speech”. This genre was institutionalized in India by the Sufi saint Hazrat Amir Khusrau (may Allah have mercy on him). He created a new genre by combining Persian, Hindustani and Islamic music, which we know today as “Qawwali”. Initially, Qawwali was performed in shrines or khanqahs, where Sufi saints remembered Allah in the language of love, recited blessings on the Prophet (PBUH), and achieved spiritual upliftment through devotional songs and meditation. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Abida Parveen, Sabri Brothers—these names are synonymous with Qawwali today. But they are not just artists; they are a kind of spiritual messenger. - The Spiritual Power of Sound
In Islam, sound and sound have a special importance. Each of the 99 names of Allah carries a sound and meaning. Recitation of the Quran: It is not just reading, but an audible meditation. Azan – a kind of spiritual call. In Sufi tradition, sound, i.e. “sound” is not just external, but it opens the door to the soul. Sufi saints believe that when the heart is absorbed in the remembrance of Allah through words, the soul flies to Malakut. - The main elements of Sama: Dhikr and Love
The main power of Sama and Qawwali is “Dhikr”—the remembrance of Allah. This remembrance is sometimes expressed in the voice, sometimes in the heart, and sometimes in song. Through Sama, the love of Allah is born in the heart, the soul is freed from worldly bonds, a kind of silent cry is created: “O Allah! I am yours. If you fall in love with Allah once, you will never be satisfied with any other love. — Rabia Basri - Structure and Characteristics of Qawwali
There are several stages in the performance of a Qawwali.
Hamd: Praise of Allah
Naat: Praise of the Prophet (peace be upon him)
Manjur Nama: Dialogue between lover and beloved metaphorically
Court Ghazal: Words of a Sufi saint
Darudd and Dua at the end
- Debate and Explanation of Music in Sufism
Although many Islamic thinkers have called music haram, many scholars and Sufi saints have considered music as food for the soul. Imam Ghazali (may Allah have mercy on him) said – Music is not permissible when it arouses worldly desires, but when it draws the soul towards Allah, then it is part of worship. In Sufism, music is not a luxury, Rather, it is a kind of meditation and a path that helps to be absorbed in the remembrance of Allah. - The appeal of Sama and Qawwali to modern youth
Today’s young generation is going through depression, anxiety and mental stress, tired of the external religious structure. They are searching for Allah with their hearts. In this context, Qawwali and Sama are a way of liberation for them. There is no force here, but love. There is no forced obedience here, but surrender of the heart. Here Allah can be felt as a lover. - The spread of Qawwali in world culture
Today, Qawwali is known not only in the subcontinent, but all over the world. Qawwali is being performed at various international festivals. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s concerts in New York, London, Paris, audiences in tears at Abida Parveen’s songs. Qawwali reaction videos on YouTube of the young generation. As a result of this globalization, Qawwali and Sama are now an international spiritual culture. - Sama and Qawwali: The Door to the Heart The key to unlocking
Sufi saints say that Sama and Qawwali are the “sounds” that unlock the inner locks of the soul. When tears come to the eyes and the heart trembles to the rhythm of music, then you should understand that Allah has touched you. There was nothing in that sound unless there was love in it. No melody comes alive without the love of Allah. - Conclusion: Journeying on the path of Allah in the music of love
Sama and Qawwali are not a cultural hobby. This is taking the path of Allah in the music of love. This is the vehicle through which the soul flies to the court of the Lord. For today’s young generation who wants to love Allah, want to cry to Him, want to lose their heart in His sound—for them, Sama and Qawwali are a rare spiritual horizon. Sufi music opens such a spiritual door that, upon entering, a person becomes a stranger to himself and gets lost in the love of Allah.