Abstract

Purpose and Introduction: Historically, religion has had a crucial influence in writing, especially in poetry, and has persistently emerged as a prominent issue for poets and researchers. Consequently, a reciprocal and mutually enriching relationship has consistently existed between religion and literature, with both influencing and molding the other. This link frequently causes poetry to fulfill religious functions, facilitating the dissemination and more lucid articulation of religious objectives. Conversely, religion has offered poets significant intellectual and thematic underpinnings. Consequently, certain poets have utilized religious themes in their compositions, employing poetry as a means to attain social, educational, and political objectives. Rashid Salim Khouri, referred to as Qirwi, is a notable Lebanese Christian poet recognized for his significant contribution to Mahjar literature, particularly through his distinctive incorporation of Islamic philosophy in his writings. His poetry prominently incorporates religious concepts, particularly Islamic philosophy, as evidenced by his allusions to the Quran and its verses. His profound engagement with Islamic notions is a notable characteristic of his poetry, highlighting a significant intellectual and thematic link between this Christian poet and Islamic traditions. Consequently, numerous Islamic beliefs coexist with—and in certain instances, even eclipse—his Christian theological perspectives in his poetry. The principles of anti-imperialism, integral to Islam, are articulated more forcefully in Islamic teachings than in early Christian ideas, which frequently emphasize peace and non-violence. The centrality of Jihad in Islam is underscored by its classification as a branch of Islamic law, as emphasized in various verses of the Quran. Conversely, early Christian doctrines assert that Jihad and the principles of combat ought not to be integrated into religion, as Christianity is inherently pacifist. This study aims to investigate the impact of Islamic ideologies on Jihad and anti-imperialism in Rashid Salim Khouri's poetry, considering the delicate socio-political context of his homeland, which endured centuries of Ottoman and Western colonial domination, alongside his deep engagement with an Islamic cultural milieu. Furthermore, it seeks to analyze the poet's motivations for integrating these concepts into his compositions.
Methodology: This study utilizes a descriptive-analytical methodology to elucidate and examine instances of Jihad and anti-imperialism in the poetry of Rashid Salim Khouri. The study largely examines his lyrical compilations, particularly his Diwan A’asir. The chosen literary samples were selected by a deductive approach, beginning with specific instances and generalizing the conclusions. Initially, all of the poet's works were examined and critiqued, followed by the selection of instances addressing themes of Jihad, anti-imperialism, and pertinent Islamic concepts for further research.
Findings: The research findings reveal that despite the poet's departure from his homeland, Lebanon, due to the political, social, and economic upheaval instigated by the oppressive colonial regimes of France and Britain, he remains profoundly influenced by the Arabic and Islamic milieu of his birthplace. This influence is apparent in his poetry, where the teachings of the Quran and the anti-imperialist tenets of Islam are distinctly reflected. Consequently, the poet maintains an affirmative and supporting perspective on the Islamic principles of jihad and anti-imperialism.
Discussion and Conclusion:  The notions of Jihad and anti-imperialism, as fundamental principles of Islam, are intricately connected to Rashid Salim Khouri’s religious convictions and are distinctly manifested in several of his poetry. Although early Christian teachings, grounded in peace, reconciliation, and submission, have not prioritized such notions, Khouri's poetry explicitly repudiates them. He condemns the submissiveness and pacifism inherent in Christianity, while extolling the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the quintessential exemplar of Jihad and resistance to tyranny. Moreover, in certain lines, Khouri references Quranic teachings to emphasize the significance of military readiness and armament as vital elements of Jihad, promoting deterrence via power against adversaries. The poet underscores the significance of unity and solidarity as the initial stage in Jihad. He asserts that triumph in Jihad against imperialists relies on the existence of a unified, cohesive community devoid of discord. According to Khouri, the sole avenue to genuine independence is via resistance and active battle (Jihad) against imperialist forces, especially Western colonial nations like Britain, France, and Israel. Thus, Khouri implores the Lebanese populace to revolt against imperialists and commemorates the martyrs and defenders of the nation in its struggle against oppression. Khouri adeptly integrates the Islamic notions of Jihad and anti-imperialism into his poetry, employing his literary creations as tools for social and political activity, compelling the Lebanese and broader Arab populations to oppose foreign subjugation and assert their sovereignty.