HAMD

Hamd is a form of devotional poetry and song in Islam that specifically praises God. The term comes from Arabic al-hamd meaning praise or thanks. In its simplest sense, a hamd is a lyrical expression of gratitude to the Creator, often focusing on divine attributes such as mercy, knowledge, and sovereignty. It is distinct from naat, the praise of the Prophet Muhammad; however, some works hybridize the two forms and are commonly performed in the same devotional contexts.

Hamd traditions exist across Arabic, Persian, Urdu, Turkish, and other Muslim literary cultures. In classical Arabic poetry, hamd appeared in panegyric forms and as part of larger rhetorical works. In Persian and Urdu literature, hamd evolved into a popular devotional genre, frequently recited in mosques, shrines, and literary gatherings, and in modern times rendered as nasheed-style songs.

Themes commonly addressed include gratitude for God’s favors, recognition of divine attributes (mercy, wisdom, omnipotence), praise for His creation, and calls to worship. The form ranges from formal odes to simple rhymed couplets, and in contemporary settings many hamds are sung with or without musical accompaniment. Some communities limit or prohibit instrumental music in religious contexts, while others use traditional or modern accompaniment in secular or celebratory settings.

Notable contemporary hamd traditions exist in South Asia and the broader Muslim world, where poets and performers keep the genre active in both print and audio-visual media. See also Naat and Nasheed.