Dr. Iqbal’s philosophy: A timeless beacon of hope, self-discovery and national renaissance
PESHAWAR (APP): At a time when nations are grappling with rapidly changing global dynamics, economic uncertainties, security challenges, social inequalities and technological transformations, the philosophy of great thinkers offers a guiding light to navigate complexities and build a prosperous future.
For Pakistan, the intellectual legacy of Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal is more than a literary treasure or a historical reference. It is a powerful call for self-discovery, intellectual awakening, national unity and collective responsibility, urging individuals to rise above despair, recognize their potential and contribute meaningfully to prosperity of society.
As the nation celebrates the 149th birth anniversary of the Poet of the East on November 9, his message of Khudi (selfhood), symbolism of Shaheen (eagle), and his vision of an enlightened and progressive Muslim society continue to resonate with particular relevance among generations facing the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.
Born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot at residence of Sheikh Noor Muhammad, Allama Iqbal emerged as one of the most influential poets, philosophers and intellectuals of the twentieth century.
His remarkable intellectual journey transformed poetry into an instrument of awakening, inspiring Muslims of the subcontinent to rediscover their identity, dignity and collective strength.
His dream of a separate homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent, articulated prominently in his historic Allahabad address in 1930, subsequently became a reality through the political struggle led by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, culminating in the creation of Pakistan in 1947.
However, experts believed that confining Iqbal’s legacy merely to the Pakistan Movement would be an injustice to the depth and universality of his thought. His philosophy encompasses almost every dimension of human existence, including education, morality, spirituality, individual development, social justice, political consciousness and the relationship between individuals and society.
“Allama Iqbal’s poetry transcended geographical boundaries, making him a respected intellectual figure from Asia and the Middle East to Europe and America. His ability to inspire and awaken Muslim youth in British India remains a remarkable testament to his intellectual genius,” said Prof Dr Younas Khan of Islamia College Peshawar.
Talking to APP, he said Dr Allama Iqbal carried forward the intellectual renaissance initiated by great educationist Sir Syed Ahmad Khan and provided philosophical direction to the Muslims of the subcontinent at a critical juncture in their history.
Referring to Dr. Iqbal’s political vision, he said his historic Allahabad address 1930 provided an important intellectual foundation for the idea of a separate homeland, which was subsequently translated into reality through the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam.
He added that Iqbal’s poetry encouraged Muslims to overcome fear, challenge colonial subjugation through peaceful intellectual and political struggle, and stand up for their rights, identity and dignity.
At the heart of Iqbal’s philosophy lies the concept of Khudi, which encourages individuals to recognize their inner strength, develop confidence, acquire knowledge and cultivate the courage to shape their own destiny.
Through his celebrated Persian work Asrar-e-Khudi, Dr. Allama Iqbal explained that selfhood was not an expression of arrogance or selfishness but a continuous process of self-realization, moral development and strengthening one’s relationship with Allah Almighty.
“His message was particularly significant for young people, whom he regarded as the driving force behind social transformation and national progress. The famous symbolism of Shaheen, or eagle, represents this spirit of ambition and freedom. Unlike birds that depend on others for sustenance, the Shaheen symbolizes courage, independence, farsightedness, resilience and an uncompromising pursuit of higher objectives.”
Dr Younas referred to five important attributes associated with Iqbal’s Shaheen philosophy, including farsightedness, fearlessness, independence, contemplation and resilience, saying these qualities could help young people develop leadership abilities, intellectual confidence and a sense of responsibility towards society.
“Dr. Iqbal’s intellectual journey through English, Arabic, Urdu and Persian literature, alongside his extensive exposure to Greek and German philosophers, shaped a unique worldview that continues to offer guidance to humanity,” he observed.
Even after 149 years since his birth, Dr. Muhmmad Iqbal’s philosophical teachings remained relevant for Muslims across the world, offering hope, intellectual direction and inspiration for a better future.
Beyond individual empowerment, Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal attached equal importance to collective welfare, believing that the strength of a nation depended upon the character, discipline and contribution of its citizens.
Professor Dr Ejaz Khan of University of Peshawar described Iqbal’s philosophy as deeply humanistic and solution-oriented, emphasizing that his message went beyond political awakening to encompass peace, prosperity, social harmony and the promotion of Islamic values.
“One of the cornerstones of Dr Iqbal’s philosophy is the transformation of individuals into productive and responsible citizens. He strongly believed that reformation of individuals could ultimately lead to the reformation of society,” Dr Ejaz said.
Referring to Iqbal’s Persian masterpiece Ramooz-e-Bekhudi (The Secrets of Selflessness), he explained that the individual and the nation were closely interconnected, with each deriving strength and identity from the other.
He said Iqbal emphasized that individuals could achieve dignity and recognition through their collective identity, while a nation could only become strong through the character, commitment and positive contribution of its people.
“This philosophy offers a meaningful response to several challenges confronting our society, including nepotism, corruption, social injustice and declining moral values.
When individuals prioritize collective interests over personal gains, institutions become stronger and society moves towards progress,” he added.
Dr Ejaz said that Iqbal’s message of selflessness, discipline and collective responsibility needed to be incorporated into educational institutions to prepare a generation capable of addressing contemporary national challenges.
Another educationist, Professor Dr A.H. Hilali of Politcal Science Department, described Allama Iqbal as a philosopher of all eras whose intellectual vision was far ahead of his time.
He said Iqbal’s Allahabad address of 1930 was a historic milestone in the political evolution of the Muslims of the subcontinent, providing a vision that was eventually realized through the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
“Dr Iqbal envisioned a universal society founded on justice, equality, harmony and human dignity. His philosophy was not confined to any particular geographical region, as its message of humanism and moral awakening carries universal appeal,” Dr Hilali said.
He added that Iqbal’s extensive studies of different intellectual traditions, religions, mythologies and philosophical schools distinguished him from his contemporaries and established him as one of the greatest intellectual figures of the twentieth century.
His poetry, he said, continued to be taught and researched at leading educational institutions in Pakistan and abroad, while dedicated departments of Iqbaliat were helping preserve and promote his intellectual heritage.
For ordinary citizens, students and young professionals, Dr. Iqbal’s message offers a practical lesson that success is not achieved through resources, privilege or opportunities alone but through determination, knowledge, character and an unwavering belief in one’s abilities.
At a time when many young people are confronted with unemployment, uncertainty, social pressures and limited opportunities, his philosophy encourages them to replace pessimism with hope, dependence with self-reliance and inactivity with purposeful action.
His emphasis on knowledge and intellectual inquiry also carries particular significance in an age dominated by information technology, artificial intelligence and global competition, where nations must invest in education, research, innovation and critical thinking to secure their future.
Equally important is his message of national unity and social responsibility, reminding citizens that sustainable progress cannot be achieved through individual success alone but requires justice, honesty, tolerance and collective commitment.
As Pakistan celebrates the 149th birth anniversary of its national poet with profound reverence and enthusiasm, educationists believe that merely holding ceremonies, seminars and literary gatherings is not enough to preserve his legacy.
The real tribute to Dr Muhammad Iqbal would be to translate his teachings into practical action by strengthening educational institutions, promoting intellectual curiosity, encouraging scientific thinking, ensuring social justice and nurturing a generation equipped with character, confidence and leadership qualities.
For a nation aspiring to achieve economic stability, political maturity and international recognition, Iqbal’s philosophy remains an enduring source of inspiration.
His timeless message continues to remind the nation that the journey towards greatness begins with the awakening of the individual, grows through collective unity and ultimately reaches its destination through knowledge, character and an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose.
