Al-Maʿarri: The Vegan Poet Who Shaped Ethical Consciousness

Al-Ma’arri was a blind Syrian philosopher, poet & vegan.

Al-Ma’arri Illustration by Mid Atlantic Vegan

In the bustling streets of ancient Aleppo and the scholarly circles of Baghdad, a blind poet with unorthodox views was weaving verses that would challenge the prevailing norms of his time. This figure, Abu al-ʿAlaʾ Ahmad ibn ʿAbd Allah ibn Sulaiman al-Tanukhi al-Maʿarri, better known as al-Maʿarri, emerged as a beacon of free thought during the Islamic Golden Age, and notably, as an advocate for what we would recognize today as a vegan lifestyle.

The Islamic Golden Age, spanning from the 8th to the 14th century, was a period marked by unprecedented intellectual, scientific, and cultural advancements. City centers like Baghdad and Cordoba were melting pots of innovation and scholarship. Philosophers, scientists, poets, and theologians of diverse backgrounds converged, pushing the boundaries of human thought and knowledge. Against this vibrant backdrop, al-Maʿarri’s voice emerged, both in sync with the intellectual vigor of his era and yet, strikingly distinct in its dissent.

Born in 973 near Aleppo, in modern-day Syria, tragedy struck al-Maʿarri early on. A bout of smallpox robbed him of his sight, but this impediment did little to curb his insatiable thirst for knowledge. Initiated into his scholarly journey in Aleppo, the young al-Maʿarri then moved to Antioch and subsequently, in pursuit of deeper learning, journeyed to Baghdad. The city, pulsating with intellectual debates and a hub for scholars from diverse regions, further shaped al-Maʿarri's worldviews. He immersed himself in this environment for nearly two decades.

Returning to Syria, al-Maʿarri adopted an ascetic lifestyle, drawing a stark contrast with the opulence that many of his contemporaries enjoyed. His writings, replete with philosophical depth, satirical wit, and profound skepticism, often tread the boundaries of what was acceptable. He questioned the foundational beliefs of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, drawing both admiration for his intellectual rigor and ire for his heretical views. Two of his standout works, the "Luzumiyat" and "Risalat al-Ghufran," encapsulate his range: from philosophical musings on existence to a narrative set in paradise where poets engage in celestial debate.

Perhaps most intriguing about al-Maʿarri in the context of the modern age is his advocacy for animals. The term "veganism" might not have been coined yet, but al-Maʿarri's ethos mirrored its core principles. Through poems like "I No Longer Steal From Nature," he conveyed his deep aversion to causing harm to animals and the environment. He rallied against practices such as animal sacrifices and meat consumption, firmly placing himself centuries ahead in ethical thought.

A Bold Ethical Stance: "I No Longer Steal From Nature"

Al-Maʿarri's most celebrated work, "I No Longer Steal From Nature," stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to veganism and ethical living. Written in an era where dietary choices rarely stirred philosophical contemplation, this poem reflects al-Maʿarri's pioneering spirit as an advocate of compassion towards animals. In his verses, he lamented humanity's disregard for the sanctity of nature and expressed his personal decision to abstain from exploiting animals for sustenance.

Al-Maʿarri's literary oeuvre is a testament to his unyielding dedication to literary excellence. His works spanned an array of genres, from satirical verses that critiqued societal norms to philosophical treatises that dissected the human condition. His writings delved into themes of morality, religion, superstition, and the essence of humanity. His compositions, characterized by eloquence and depth of thought, illuminated the intellectual landscape of his era.

"The 10th-century Arab poet al-Maʿarri is remembered for his writings against animal cruelty. He preferred a diet of vegetables, fruit, and cereals, and refused to use animals for his own benefit." Author and historian Karen Armstrong

Legacy and Enduring Inspiration

Al-Maʿarri passed away in 1057, but the echoes of his verses continue to reverberate in the annals of literary history. While his skepticism towards religion marked him as a controversial figure in his time, the modern era, with its renewed interest in animal rights and ethical living, sees al-Maʿarri as a pioneering force.

In reflecting on the life of this remarkable figure, one is reminded of the fluidity of time. In the heart of the Islamic Golden Age, amidst scholars decoding the mysteries of the universe, was a blind poet, championing a cause that today, more than ever, holds relevance. Al-Maʿarri, with his verses, bridges the gap between then and now, beckoning us to a more compassionate future

Al-Maʿarri's profound impact on ethical consciousness transcends time. His legacy serves as a reminder that one individual's conviction can spark a flame of change that persists for centuries. His writings continue to captivate scholars, philosophers, and ethical thinkers, fostering contemplation about the interconnectedness of all life and the moral responsibilities that arise from it.

Al-Maʿarri's journey is not merely a chapter in history; it is an ongoing dialogue between the past and the present, urging us to reflect on our choices, align them with compassion, and question prevailing norms in pursuit of a more harmonious world.

‘I No Longer Steal From Nature,’ by Al-Ma’arri

You are diseased in understanding and religion.

Come to me, that you may hear something of sound truth.

Do not unjustly eat fish the water has given up,

And do not desire as food the flesh of slaughtered animals,

Or the white milk of mothers who intended its pure draught

for their young, not noble ladies.

And do not grieve the unsuspecting birds by taking eggs;

for injustice is the worst of crimes.

And spare the honey which the bees get industriously

from the flowers of fragrant plants;

For they did not store it that it might belong to others,