Meaning: The quote "Art: If the object of poetry is, to make men, then poetry is the heir of prophecy." by Muhammad Iqbal, a renowned poet, philosopher, and politician from the Indian subcontinent, encapsulates a profound insight into the nature and purpose of poetry. This quote is an invitation to contemplate the transformative power of poetry and its potential to shape and elevate human consciousness. In order to fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the context of Iqbal's work and the broader philosophical and artistic traditions that have informed his perspective on poetry.

Muhammad Iqbal, also known as Allama Iqbal, is celebrated for his poetic works, which often explore themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the potential for human progress. As a philosopher, he was deeply interested in the intersection of art, spirituality, and the realization of human potential. Iqbal's writings reflect a synthesis of Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, drawing inspiration from Islamic mysticism, German idealism, and the Romantic movement.

In the quote, Iqbal suggests that the primary purpose of poetry is to "make men," or in other words, to cultivate and enrich the human experience. By employing the term "men," Iqbal denotes the collective humanity, emphasizing the universal and transformative nature of poetry. This concept aligns with the traditional view of poetry as a means of expressing and evoking emotions, ideas, and experiences that resonate with the human condition.

Iqbal's assertion that "poetry is the heir of prophecy" is particularly significant, as it draws a parallel between the prophetic tradition and the creative power of poetry. In various religious and cultural traditions, prophets are revered as messengers who convey divine truths and inspire moral and spiritual guidance. By likening poetry to prophecy, Iqbal suggests that poetry has the capacity to impart profound insights, awaken dormant potentials, and guide individuals towards a higher state of being.

In the context of Iqbal's broader philosophical outlook, this quote can be seen as an affirmation of the redemptive and transformative potential of art. Iqbal believed that poetry, as a form of artistic expression, possesses the ability to awaken dormant faculties within individuals, fostering a heightened awareness of their spiritual and moral dimensions. In this sense, poetry serves as a medium through which individuals can transcend their immediate circumstances, gain insight into universal truths, and strive towards a more elevated existence.

Furthermore, Iqbal's conception of poetry as the "heir of prophecy" reflects his belief in the enduring relevance of artistic and spiritual guidance in the modern world. In an age characterized by rapid technological advancement and materialistic pursuits, Iqbal's perspective underscores the timeless significance of art and poetry as vehicles for inner awakening and ethical enlightenment. By invoking the notion of inheritance, Iqbal emphasizes the continuity of wisdom and inspiration from the prophetic tradition to the realm of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Muhammad Iqbal's quote "Art: If the object of poetry is, to make men, then poetry is the heir of prophecy." encapsulates his profound understanding of the transformative potential of poetry and its capacity to elevate and enrich the human experience. Through this quote, Iqbal invites us to recognize the enduring relevance of poetry as a source of spiritual and moral guidance, echoing the prophetic tradition's role in inspiring and enlightening humanity.

Iqbal's perspective serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to awaken, inspire, and guide individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. This quote invites us to contemplate the profound impact of poetry as a medium for transcending immediate circumstances, connecting with universal truths, and striving towards a more enlightened existence. In an age marked by rapid change and material pursuits, Iqbal's words resonate as a timeless testament to the enduring significance of art and poetry in nurturing the human spirit.