Religious Discourse in the Poetry of Shortanbai Qanayuly: A Theolinguistic Analysis

Abstract

Spirirtuality and religious orientation of the people, national characteristics were passed down from century to century through literary heritage. Poets presented propaganda, education, law and religious values in an artistic form through the language of poetry. In this regard, we can see the poetic image of the attitude of the Kazakh people towards Islam and spiritual practices in the poetry of the poets-zhyrau. One of them was Shortanbai Kanayuly, who lived in the nineteenth centry. Shortanbai was not only a poet, but also a religious figure. This article presents a theolinguistic analysis of one of Shortonbai Kanayuly's poetic works, the poem “Atamyz Adam Paigambar”, which begins with these words. This poem describes religious beliefs and worship, the spiritual nature of man, as well as the transience of life in combination with national beliefs. From a theolinguistic point of view, the poem is based on religious concepts such as Islamic duty, faith in God and the falsehood of the world. The article gives examples of Islamic terms used by the poet in Islamic literature. In addition, examples from the Quran and Sunnah, which are considered sacred sources in Islam, are presented. We will analyze and explain the metaphors and figuaratuve words used in the poet's poems. The definitions of Islamic terms are presented in a clear and understandable language. This article clearly explains the religious beliefs and national values of the Kazakh nation. In the context of modern interdisciplinary research, religion and language, religion and literature are examined together, and through the poet's poems, it is shown that the main principle of the Kazakh nation was Muslim, and that national beliefs and religion were completely interwined.

Keywords: Literature, Spiritual, God, Paradise, Hell