SUFI POETRY IN SOMALI

he is given the highest place in the Garden

of Paradis·e.

124.

Lines 66-67. To understand these two lines it is essential

to realize that the terms 'Apostle' and

'Prophet' both refer here to Muhammad.

There is a difference, however, between the

meanings of the two terms in the present

con text. The term I Apos tIe' (RASUL) is

as~ociated with the concept of delivering

the Universal Message (RISALAH) , while

'Prophet' (NAB!) is associated with the mandate

of Prophecy (NUBUWAH). The prayer referred

to here is ALLAHUMA SALLY WA SALLIM WA BARIK

cALAY ~ '0 God, bestow peace on him, preserve

him and bless him!' and is traditionally

regarded as a source of contentment to the

Sufi~. The two lines suggest that the

Prophet turns this prayer into spiritual

nourishment for those who bless him in this

way on their journey through life.