Abu al-Fath al-Busti
Abu al-Fath al-Busti, whose full name is Ali bin Muhammad bin al-Husayn bin Yusuf bin Muhammad bin Abd al-Aziz al-Busti, was born in 330 AH in the town of Bust, located near Sistan in Afghanistan. He is of Arab descent and is recognized as one of the poets of the 4th century AH. Abu al-Fath began his career as a teacher for young boys in his hometown before moving on to serve as a scribe in the court of the Ghaznavid dynasty. Eventually, he traveled to Bukhara, where he passed away in 400 AH. This article aims to provide a deeper understanding of his life and contributions.
The Knowledge of Abu al-Fath al-Busti
Abu al-Fath al-Busti studied under Abu Hatim Muhammad bin Hibban, one of the most distinguished poets of his time in terms of knowledge, writing, and poetry. He was a skilled writer known for his meticulous selection of words, whether in poetry or prose, and he became recognized for his unique style of classification. Notably, he was one of the writers for the Samanid dynasty in Khorasan and gained prominence under the patronage of Amir Sabuktigin, whose son later served Sultan Mahmud bin Sabuktigin.
Position of Abu al-Fath al-Busti
Abu al-Fath served as the minister of the Emirate of Bust, a small principality under the province of Sistan. His political acumen became evident when the Ghaznavid ruler, Amir Nasir al-Din Sabuktigin, took control of this emirate and appointed him as head of the Diwan, a position comparable to that of a secretary of state in European countries or a prime minister in Eastern nations. It is noteworthy that he achieved numerous victories for this emirate, capturing fortresses and other smaller emirates. He effectively utilized his literary expertise and eloquence to showcase Bust’s significance and successfully fostered relationships with neighboring territories.
Works of Abu al-Fath al-Busti
Abu al-Fath al-Busti left behind a single diwan, which includes some of his poetry, although it is known that he produced a wealth of unpublished literary works. He also authored a book titled “Sharh Mukhtasar al-Juwayni,” which pertains to Shafi’i jurisprudence. Among his most recognized pieces is the celebrated poem known as “The Book of Wisdom” or “The Nun of al-Busti,” a work cherished by literary enthusiasts and renowned among scholars. Many have engaged with this poem, including:
- Abu Mansur al-Thaalibi, who wrote a commentary on it in his book “Nathr al-Nizam wa Hal al-Aqad.”
- Badr al-Din al-Jajarmi, who translated it into Persian.
- Abdul Rahman al-Umari al-Milani, who provided a commentary on it.
- Muhammad bin Osman al-Najati, who also wrote a commentary.
- Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Ahmad al-Naqrah Kari, who authored a commentary.
- Al-Hassan bin Muhammad al-Burini, who explained the poem.
- Abdul Qadir bin al-Eidrus, who commented on some of its verses.
- Contemporary scholar Muhammad Saadi Joknli, who translated it into Turkish prose, being the only known translation of this poem.