Inspiring millions of people, visionary philosopher, poet, and statesman Allama Muhammad Iqbal—also known as the Poet of the East—was His words inspired self-belief, love of the divine, and a desire of action. Ten of his most well-known poems, translated into English, are below together with their essence.
1. Lab Pe Aati Hai Dua Ban Ke Tamanna Meri
“My wish comes to my lips as a prayer…”
Iqbal sees a world full of wisdom, humility, and harmony in this sincere poetry, a lovely prayer for youngsters.
2. Shikwa (The Complaint)
“Why should I remain silent? My heart is not at ease…”
Iqbal questions why Muslims are suffering even if they have prior glory in this poetry, therefore reflecting their complaints toward God.
3. Jawab-e-Shikwa (The Answer to the Complaint)
“The secret of nations’ rise and fall lies in faith and deeds…”
Responding from God, this poetry exhorts Muslims to resurrect their faith, self-belief, and diligence rather than to attribute fate all the blame.
4. Khudi Ko Kar Buland Itna
“Raise yourself so high that before every destiny…”
Iqbal underlines the need of personal growth as, even God will inquire what fate one wants if one develops their character.
5. Sitaron Se Aage Jahan Aur Bhi Hain
“Beyond the stars, there are more worlds yet to be explored…”
This poem exhorts readers to keep aiming for excellence, dream large, and transcend constraints.
6. Tulu-e-Islam (The Rise of Islam)
“O sun! Rise once again in the deserts of Hijaz…”
Encouragement of Muslims to wake from sleep and recover their lost splendor, Iqbal sees the rebirth of Islam.
7. Ye Ghazi Ye Tere Pur Asrar Banday
“These warriors, these devoted souls of yours…”
Honoring the bravery and spirituality of Muslim fighters, this essay emphasizes the part faith and sacrifice play.
8. Hai Ramz-e-Khudi, Maroof-e-Zamana
“The secret of selfhood is well known to the world…”
According to Iqbal, unlocking one’s actual potential and reaching excellence requires Khudi—selfhood.
9. Masjid-e-Qurtuba (The Mosque of Cordoba)
“Your beauty is eternal, your majesty beyond time…”
Using the Mosque of Cordoba as a symbol for Muslim resiliency and inventiveness, Iqbal honors the architectural wonder.
10. Main Tujh Ko Batata Hoon Taqdeer-e-Umam Kya Hai
“I will tell you what shapes the destiny of nations…”
Iqbal shows in this poem how hardship, love, and faith help to define the emergence and collapse of civilizations.