The Formation of Prophetic Ethics (Akhlaq-i Nabawi) in the Poetry of Faridal-Din 'Attar al-Nishapuri: An Analytical Study of Qur'anic and HadithFoundations, Spiritual Training, and Human Perfection

Abstract

This research presents an analytical study of the formation of Prophetic ethics (Akhlaq-i
Nabawi) in the poetry of Farid al-Din 'Attar al-Nishapuri (d. 1220 CE), examining its
Qur'anic and Hadith foundations, its role in spiritual training, and its contribution to human
perfection. 'Attar, one of the most prominent Sufi poets of the Islamic tradition, articulated a
comprehensive ethical framework rooted in the prophetic model, emphasizing that the
ultimate goal of Sufism is the embodiment of the Prophet Muhammad's صلى الله عليه وسلم moral character.
The study explores how 'Attar's poetic works—particularly his Mantiq al-Tayr (The
Conference of the Birds), Musibatnama, Ilahinama, and Tadhkirat al-Auliya—reflect the
prophetic virtues of compassion, forgiveness, humility, justice, patience, and love, all of
which are deeply grounded in Qur'anic verses and Hadith literature. Through a systematic
analysis of 'Attar's poetry, the research demonstrates that he presents the Prophet's ethics not
merely as a set of moral ideals but as a comprehensive system of spiritual training, personal
transformation, and social harmony. The study highlights the Qur'anic foundations of
prophetic ethics, particularly the concept of uswah hasanah (excellent example), the
emphasis on tazkiyah (self-purification), and the cultivation of moral virtues such as
truthfulness, trustworthiness, kindness, and moderation. It further examines the Hadith
literature that informs 'Attar's ethical vision, including the Prophet's teachings on husn alkhuluq (beautiful character), forgiveness, and compassion. The research concludes that
'Attar's poetry serves as a bridge between prophetic ethical teachings and Sufi spiritual
practice, offering a pathway to human perfection through the emulation of the Prophet's
moral example.