Tales on the prophets: artistic reflection in the Kumyk literature

Abstract

The subject of this research is the Quranic narratives on the prophets in the books by A. Akayev, Shihammat-kadi from Erpeli, and Magomed Kazanbiev. In their works, tales on the prophets are interpreted and embellished with the corresponding Quranic ayats and hadiths. An attempts is made to determine cognitive function of the tales that would combine artistic virtues with folk elements, as well as frame a philosophical worldview. The worldview function of these tales is defined as humane by the spirit and logical by the method of interpretation of Islamic theosophy and ideology. It is worth noting that these tales and narratives contain the elements of folklore traditions (M. Kazanbiev “The Radiant Story”). Having analyzed the tales on the prophets described in the books by A. Akayev, Shihammat-kadi from Erpeli, and Magomed Kazanbiev, the author concludes that they represent the extensive authorial narratives based on Quranic themes. The conducted comparative analysis of the texts demonstrates that Shihammat-kadi from Erpel infuses more fiction elements, while A. Akayev places emphasis on the historical-biographical records on the prophets. Unlike the aforementioned authors, M. Kazanbiev describes and glorifies the actions and personal traits of a single prophet. Reference to the Quranic narratives on the prophets in the Kumyk religious literature allows tracing the peculiarities of their interpretation, determine the specificity of authorial narration, their style, as well as similarities and differences. The acquired results confirm that A. Akayev, Shihammat-kadi from Erpeli, and Magomed Kazanbiev embellish the Quranic texts in their works.