Islamabad, National and International Speakers at the second international seminar on the topic “Bedil’s Thought in the Islamic Context” held at Allama Iqbal Open University emphasized the enduring relevance of Bedil’s philosophical thought in guiding young minds amid today’s complex moral and social challenges, urging students to draw on his insights for ethical living and critical understanding of contemporary issues. They highlighted how Bedil’s emphasis on introspection, intellectual resilience and spiritual depth can help youth navigate modern pressures with wisdom and balance..
They stated that it is essential to introduce the younger generation to Bedil’s teachings and Islamic philosophy so that classical thought can be contextualized in relation to contemporary social, intellectual, and ethical issues.
The seminar was organized by the Department of Islamic Thought, History and Culture-AIOU in collaboration with Bedil Foundation Pakistan. Its aim was to revisit and present the thought of the great Persian poet and thinker Mirza Abdul Qadir Bedil in the context of Islamic teachings, Sufism, ethics and contemporary intellectual debates.
The chief guest of the seminar, Dr. Syed Taqi Abedi (Canada), Patron-in-Chief of Bedil Foundation Pakistan, said in his address that Bedil’s thought in the Islamic context guides a person towards inner purity, self-awareness, and spiritual development. He stated that Bedil’s poetry emphasizes Islamic values such as monotheism, patience, contentment, love of God, and humanity, which contribute to moral development of the individual and the promotion of justice and benevolence in society.
Prof. Dr. Abdul Aziz Sahir, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences in his presidential address said that Bedil is a universal poet and thinker whose relevance endures across eras. According to him, Bedil is not merely a poet of words but a champion of thought and action, which is why connecting Bedil’s philosophy with the new generation is an urgent necessity in the present era.
Other speakers included Dr. Abdur Rauf Rafique (Director, Iqbal Academy Pakistan), Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar (Director General, National Language Authority), Dr. Ikhlaq Ahmed Ahan (India), renowned poet and critic Akhtar Usman, Dr. Ali Kamil Qizilbash, Dr. Tahir Islam Askari, Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Sajjad, and Professor Dr. Moeen-ud-Din Hashmi.
During the event, the official website of Bedil Foundation Pakistan was also launched.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
