The Poem of the Scarf

The Poem of the Scarf, also known as Al-Burdah, is a famous poem by the Arabic poet al-Būṣīrī. He was of Berber descent and lived from approximately 1212 to 1295 CE.1

Al-Būṣīrī dedicated his life to poetry and also worked as a calligrapher and held official positions. He is said to have written The Poem of the Scarf after experiencing a dream where the Prophet Muhammad appeared to him and wrapped him in a mantle, curing him of partial paralysis. The poem contrasts al-Būṣīrī's own life shortcomings with the miracles of Prophet Muhammad.1

This poem is highly revered by Muslims and has been used for amulets and in funeral laments. It has been the subject of numerous commentaries and adaptations. The poem is a significant work in Arabic literature, particularly within religious and devotional poetry.12