How to Feel Alive — According to Allama Iqbal

Did you know today, Wednesday, 9th November is celebrated as Allama Iqbal day in Pakistan?

Allama Iqbal is one of the country's most famous poets and philosophers and was very influential in the 20th century.

There was a very interesting anecdote I once read about him, in particular with regards to his relationship with the Qu’ran.

His father once said to him,
“Son, recite the Holy Quran”

Iqbal replied,
“Father, I always recite the Holy Quran. I do not put it down at all!”

His father then said to him,
“Son, do not recite the Holy Quran as it was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) but as if Allah Almighty addresses it to you!”

Iqbal summarises the change within himself with these words:

“It was exactly from that day onwards that I started to understand the Holy Quran better and turn myself nearer and more completely to it. From that day onward, everything I said has been from the inspirations I received from the illuminations of the Holy Quran and my poetry has been from…