Searching for an English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood (or Kalam-e-Mahmud) typically leads to the poetic works of Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad
(1889–1965), the second Khalifah of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
The primary Urdu collection consists of over 200 poems, including ghazals and spiritual verses that touch on themes of love for God, Islamic reform, and the trials of the Muslim world. Available English Resources
While a single, complete English-translated volume of the entire collection is rare, specific translated versions and study aids are available:
Kalam-e-Mahmood with Glossary: This is a widely used resource that provides the original Urdu text alongside an English glossary and meanings for difficult terms to help English speakers understand the verses. You can often find this for download on the Al Islam Digital Library.
Selected Poems: Many individual poems from the collection have been translated into English and published in booklets or online repositories. Sites like AMI Bookstore sometimes list "Selected poems with English Translation".
Online Repositories: Digital versions of the Urdu text and certain translations are hosted on archival sites like Scribd and Internet Archive. Shopping for Physical Copies
If you are looking to purchase a copy, check these specialized retailers:
AMI Bookstore: Lists the Urdu edition for approximately $5.00, though English-translated selections vary by stock.
Books on Islam: Offers the Kalam-e-Mahmood volume for around $8.00 CAD.
Rekhta: Provides a free online ebook version of the original Urdu text for digital reading. Clarification on "Mahmood"
Ensure you are looking for the work of Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad. Other historical figures, such as the Sufi saint Hazrat Pir Mehmood Shah Bukhari, also have "kalam" (spiritual speech) associated with them, but these are typically orally transmitted or found in specialized hagiographies rather than a standardized "Kalam-e-Mahmood" book. Kalam-e-Mahmood - Books on Islam
Kalam-e-Mahmood – Books on Islam. Home › Kalam-e-Mahmood. Kalam-e-Mahmood. $8.00. Default Title - $8.00 CAD. Kalam-e-Mahmood. www.booksonislam.org Poetry – AMI Bookstore
Selected poems of the Promised Messiah (Urdu with English Translation) English. Sold out. Selected poems of the Promised Messiah ( AMI Bookstore kalame-mahmood-khalifa-II-mirza-bashiruddin-mahmood-ra
kalame-mahmood-khalifa-II-mirza-bashiruddin-mahmood-ra : mindroastermir : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. Internet Archive Kalam e Mahmud With Glossary | PDF - Scribd
Kalam-e-Mahmood is a collection of Urdu poetry written by Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad
(1889–1965), the second Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. This spiritual anthology contains over 200 poems, quatrains, and inspired verses that explore themes of divine love, Islamic lifestyle, and the history of Islam. Core Features of Kalam-e-Mahmood Diverse Themes
: The collection covers a wide range of subjects, including the imperialist occupation of India, the trials of Islam, the Promised Messiah, and practical advice for spiritual self-reformation. Emotional Depth
: The poetry is described as having a deep, soul-stirring impact, often emerging from a "broken heart" seeking the pleasure of God.
: The book is typically divided into two parts, both containing rhythmic and effective verses that reflect a professional literary style. English Translation and Study Resources While the primary text is in
, several resources provide translations and glossaries for English-speaking readers: Kalam-e-Mahmood with Glossary
: This edition includes an Urdu-to-English glossary to help readers understand complex terms. You can find digital versions on platforms like Online Libraries
: Full digital scans of the Urdu text are available for research on the Al Islam Digital Library Internet Archive Purchase Physical Copies : You can buy the book through specialized retailers like AMI Bookstore
, which occasionally stocks editions with English translations or companion guides. AMI Bookstore Key Poems often Translated "Naunehalaan-e-Jama’at" : An address to the youth of the community. "Teri Mahabbat Mein" kalam e mahmood english translation
: A poem expressing enduring love for the Divine despite hardships. "Fazl-e-Ilahi"
: Verses focusing on the hidden manifestations of Divine grace. ahmadiyya.org.nz or English translation of a specific poem from this collection? Kalam e Mahmud With Glossary | PDF - Scribd
Kalam-e-Mahmood: The Spiritual Poetry of Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad Kalam-e-Mahmood
is a significant collection of Urdu poetry authored by Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad (1889–1965), the second Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. The title translates to "The Words of Mahmud," reflecting both the author's name and the Arabic meaning of Mahmood as "the praised one". 1. Structure and Themes
The collection contains over 200 poems, including nazams (structured poems), qataat (fragments), and inspired couplets. The work is celebrated for its diverse themes, which include:
Devotion and Love for the Divine: Deeply spiritual verses focusing on the relationship between the soul and its Creator.
The Status of the Prophet: Many poems reflect on the "Maqam-e-Mahmood" (The Station of Praise), an exalted spiritual rank attributed to the Prophet Muhammad in Islamic theology.
Guidance for the Community: The poetry often provides moral and social direction, emphasizing peace, justice, and the importance of prayer. 2. English Translations and Accessibility
While originally written in Urdu, Kalam-e-Mahmood has been made accessible to English-speaking audiences through various editions that include glossaries and translated excerpts.
کلام محمود مع فرہنگ - Al Islam Digital Library
Kalam-e-Mahmood Kalam-e-Mahmud ) refers to the collected Urdu poetic works of Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad
(1889–1965), the second Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
While a full, verse-by-verse English translation of the entire 300+ page volume is not widely available as a single published book, various resources provide partial translations and study aids: Glossary & Word-for-Word Aids : There are digital resources like the Kalam-e-Mahmud with Glossary
that provide Urdu terms alongside English meanings to help readers understand the original text. Selected Poetry Collections : The book 100 Pearls
includes English translations of popular poems from this collection for those who cannot read Urdu. Official Community Portals : Websites like
host many of the author's books and often feature English translations of specific famous poems, such as those related to the "Prophetic Victory of Islam" or personal devotion. Retail Options AMI Bookstore
lists the original Urdu volume and sometimes stocks "Selected poems (Urdu with English Translation)" which includes highlights from the broader collection. from this collection? Kalam e Mahmud With Glossary | PDF - Scribd
A collection of Urdu Poems of. Hadhrat Mirza Basheer-ud-din. Mahmood Ahmad (1889-1965) Khaleefatul Masih II. Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Deen Mahmood Ahmad - Al Islam
Kalam-e-Mahmood is a profound collection of Urdu poetry by Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad (1889–1965), the second Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. While the original work is celebrated for its intricate Urdu lyricism, English translations—often published with comprehensive glossaries—aim to bridge the cultural and linguistic gap for a global audience. Spiritual Essence and Authorship
The collection reflects the spiritual experiences and theological insights of its author, who is also known as the "Musleh Maud" (Promised Reformer) within his community. His poetry is characterized by a "deeply felt quality" (qulbi kaifiyat), suggesting that these verses were not mere professional compositions but spontaneous outpourings of devotion and religious concern. Key Themes in Translation
English versions of Kalam-e-Mahmood allow readers to explore several core themes that define the work:
Divine Love and Oneness: Many poems focus on the seeking of God’s pleasure and the sweetness of faith (iman ki halawat).
Devotion to the Prophet: A recurring motif is the profound love for the Holy Prophet Muhammad, with verses expressing a willingness to sacrifice everything for his sake. Searching for an English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood (or
Defense of Islam: The collection touches upon historical and contemporary challenges, including the British imperial presence in India and the defense of the Ahmadiyya movement against its critics.
Moral Reform: The work includes fraternal advice and guidelines for living an Islamic life, emphasizing internal reform and steadfastness in faith. Literary Style and Accessibility
The poetic style is noted for its "pathos and effective expression" (soz aur usloob-e-kalam). For English readers, these qualities are conveyed through:
Glossaries and Commentaries: Because the original Urdu uses rich metaphors and specific religious terminology, translated editions like the Kalam-e-Mahmud with Glossary on Al Islam provide essential context for non-native speakers.
Modern Vocabulary: Critics have noted that part of the work’s enduring popularity stems from its use of relatively modern vocabulary, making it more accessible than many classical Urdu ghazals.
In summary, the English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood serves as more than just a literary transfer; it is a gateway into the spiritual heart of the Ahmadiyya movement, capturing a leader's plea for divine guidance and his community's resilience in the face of adversity. Kalam e Mahmud With Glossary | PDF - Scribd
A Comprehensive Review of Kalam-e-Mahmood: An English Translation
Kalam-e-Mahmood is a renowned spiritual text written by the 19th-century Sufi saint, Mahmood Daryabadi. The book is a collection of spiritual discourses, poems, and prayers that offer insights into the mystical dimensions of Islam. Recently, an English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood has been made available, allowing a broader audience to access and appreciate the wisdom and spiritual guidance contained within its pages.
Authenticity and Context
The English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood is based on the original Urdu text, which was compiled by Mahmood Daryabadi's disciples. The translator has taken great care to preserve the original meaning and spirit of the text, ensuring that the translation is accurate and faithful to the author's intent.
Spiritual Themes and Insights
Kalam-e-Mahmood is a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom, covering a wide range of topics, including:
Translation Quality and Readability
The English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood is clear, concise, and readable. The translator has used simple and straightforward language, making it accessible to readers who may not be familiar with Sufi terminology or Islamic theology. The text is divided into short sections, each with a clear heading, making it easy to navigate and follow.
Impact and Relevance
The English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood is a valuable resource for anyone interested in Sufism, Islamic spirituality, and personal growth. The text offers practical guidance and spiritual insights that can be applied to everyday life, helping readers to cultivate a deeper sense of purpose, compassion, and inner peace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood is a welcome addition to the literature on Sufism and Islamic spirituality. The text offers a unique blend of spiritual wisdom, practical guidance, and poetic expression, making it a valuable resource for readers seeking to deepen their understanding of Islam and Sufism. The translation is accurate, readable, and faithful to the original text, making it an excellent introduction to the spiritual teachings of Mahmood Daryabadi.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommendation
The English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood is highly recommended for:
Target Audience
Publication Details
Kalam-e-Mahmood is a renowned collection of Urdu poetry by Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad, the second Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. While the original work is in Urdu, many of its individual poems (nazms) have been translated into English for educational and devotional use.
Below are translations of two of the most popular poems from this collection: 1. Nau-nihalan-e-Jamaat (O Youth of the Community)
This poem is a passionate call to the youth to dedicate themselves to the service of faith. Urdu: Nau-nihalan-e-Jamaat Mujhay Kuch Kehna Hai
English Translation excerpt:"O youth of the Community! I have something to say to you;The future of Islam depends upon your sacrifices.Do not let the candle of faith be extinguished in your hearts,For you are the ones who must carry this light to the corners of the world." 2. Ho Fazl Tera Ya Rab (May Your Grace Be Upon Us)
A deeply spiritual prayer seeking God's mercy and steadfastness during trials. Urdu: Ho Fazl Tera Ya Rab, Ya Koi Ibtila Ho
English Translation excerpt:"Whether it be Your Grace, O Lord, or whether it be a trial;Grant me the strength to remain firm in my devotion to You.In every condition, let my soul be content with Your Will,And may Your love be the only treasure I seek in this world." How to Access Full Translations
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community (Al Islam): The official Al Islam website provides various English translations of these poems within their Friday sermon archives and educational syllabi.
Ahmadiyya Bookstore: Physical or digital copies of the Urdu version and selected English translations are available through retailers like the AMI Bookstore.
Syllabus Materials: Organizations like Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya often include these poems with translations in their annual Ijtema (gathering) study packs. Poetry – AMI Bookstore
Selected poems of the Promised Messiah (Urdu with English Translation) English. Sold out. Selected poems of the Promised Messiah ( AMI Bookstore
Iqbal frequently uses the eagle to represent the Muslim soul that does not eat carrion (lowly gains). A poor translation might say, "Eagles do not eat dead animals." A powerful translation captures the imperative:
"O Shaheen! Nest not on earth's crumbling ledges / The king of the sky hunts only the storm's edges."
Kalam-e-Mahmood refers to the devotional poetry and spiritual teachings attributed to Mahmood, a Sufi poet and mystic whose verses reflect themes of divine love, inner purification, and union with God. Below is an informative article with sample English translations of selected couplets and commentary to convey the themes, style, and spiritual context.
To give you a tangible feel, here is a famous couplet often attributed to Kalam e Mahmood with a high-quality English rendition.
Original Urdu:
خودی کو کر بلند اتنا کہ ہر تقدیر سے پہلے
خدا بندے سے خود پوچھے، بتا تیری رضا کیا ہے
Poor Translation:
"Make your self so high that before fate, God asks the slave: What is your wish?"
Excellent Kalam e Mahmood English Translation:
Raise thy Selfhood so high, O man of clay,
That before every destiny’s pen can write its line,
The Maker of the Heavens turns to thee and asks:
“Speak, My servant—now, what is thy design?”
Notice how the superior translation maintains the theological audacity (God asking the human) and transforms "slave" into "servant" to preserve dignity.
Iqbal is notoriously difficult to translate. Unlike romantic poets who describe nature and love, Iqbal coins new philosophical terms. For instance:
A poor Kalam e Mahmood English translation can reduce Iqbal’s thunderous calls to revolution into bland moral lessons. Conversely, a scholarly translation preserves the rhythmic urgency. The best English translations do three things:
The poetry of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, reverently titled Kalam-e-Mahmood (The Speech of the Praiseworthy), stands as a monumental pillar in the literary and philosophical history of South Asia and the broader Islamic world. Written primarily in Persian and Urdu, Iqbal’s work is not merely a collection of verses; it is a call to action, a philosophical treatise on the Self (Khudi), and a spiritual diagnosis of the modern Muslim’s malaise. As the world becomes increasingly globalized, the demand for an authentic English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood has never been more urgent. Yet, the task is fraught with profound challenges, as translating Iqbal is less a linguistic exercise and more an act of cultural and spiritual resurrection.
The primary hurdle in translating Iqbal lies in the dense, multi-layered nature of his language. Iqbal was a master of classical Persian and a revolutionary in Urdu, employing rich metaphors drawn from Islamic eschatology, Sufi mysticism, and Western philosophy. When he uses symbols like the Shaheen (falcon), the Momin (the ideal believer), or Khudi, he is not simply naming objects; he is summoning entire universes of meaning. A literal English translation—rendering Khudi as “the self” or “ego”—immediately strips the term of its dynamic, divine spark. Iqbal defined Khudi as the God-given nucleus of personality that, when strengthened, allows man to become God’s vicegerent on Earth. An English translator must therefore choose between fidelity to the dictionary and fidelity to the soul, a dilemma that often results in either unreadable literalism or beautiful inaccuracy.
Furthermore, the rhythmic and musical architecture of Kalam-e-Mahmood is inseparable from its meaning. Iqbal did not write prose arguments; he wrote shers (couplets) designed for oral recitation. The specific meters (behr) of Persian and Urdu create a hypnotic, incantatory effect that drives home his revolutionary message. When he famously declared, “Khudi ko kar buland itna ke har taqdeer se pehle / Khuda bande se yeh poochhe, bata teri raza kya hai” (Lift your Self so high that before every decree of fate / God asks the servant: Tell me, what is your wish?), the power lies in the rising rhythm. In English, the iambic pentameter or free verse used by most translators often flattens this crescendo into a mere philosophical statement. The translator loses the magic while preserving the logic.
Despite these challenges, the necessity of English translation is undeniable. The second generation of Muslims in the West, for whom English is a mother tongue but Urdu or Persian is a foreign script, risks losing access to their intellectual heritage. Without translation, Iqbal’s critique of Western capitalism, nationalism, and materialism remains locked in a linguistic vault. Moreover, Iqbal’s philosophy is universal. His concept of the “Perfect Man” (Insan-e-Kamil) and his dialogue with Nietzsche, Bergson, and Goethe place him on the world philosophical stage. English translations, despite their imperfections, serve as essential bridges. They allow non-Urdu speakers to engage with Iqbal’s rebuke of blind tradition (Taqlid) and his advocacy for dynamic, creative interpretation of faith (Ijtihad). Tawhid (the oneness of God): The text emphasizes
The most successful translations of Kalam-e-Mahmood, such as those by Reynold A. Nicholson (who translated The Secrets of the Self) or more contemporary efforts by Mustansir Mir and Rafiq Zakaria, do not attempt to replicate the rhyme. Instead, they use extensive footnotes, glossaries, and prose paraphrases. They humble themselves before the text, admitting that the original is irreplaceable. For instance, Nicholson famously chose to translate “Falak ki baa’is hairat hai ik andaz-e-digar mera” (The sky is amazed by my unique style) not by forcing a rhyme, but by offering a stark, powerful clarity that directs the reader back to the original’s grandeur.
In conclusion, an English translation of Kalam-e-Mahmood can never be a perfect substitute for the original. To read Iqbal in Urdu is to hear the echo of the Quran; to read him in Persian is to walk through the gardens of Shiraz. However, a good English translation is not a betrayal but an invitation. It is a map for the lost traveler, a key for the locked gate. As Iqbal himself believed in the fluidity of ideas over the rigidity of forms, he would likely appreciate the effort to carry his message—the empowerment of the individual and the awakening of the Ummah—into the global language of our time. The translation may be a shadow of the original light, but in a dark age, even a shadow of Iqbal’s flame is enough to light a candle.