Throughout his life, Al Maari was a staunch advocate for veganism. His beliefs were deeply rooted in the principles of non-violence and compassion towards all living creatures. He opposed all forms of violence and believed that no living being should be harmed.
Al Maarri
One of the common misconceptions about the Middle Ages is that their view of
animals was vastly different from ours today. However, the famous
11th-century Syrian poet and philosopher, Abu Al Alaa Ahmad ibn Abdullah Al
Maari, challenges this notion with his progressive stance on veganism.
Early Life and Education
Born in 973 near Aleppo, Al Maari’s life was marked by early adversity. As a
child, he contracted smallpox, which left him blind1. Despite this
significant challenge, his thirst for knowledge led him to travel
extensively across the Levant, studying preserved manuscripts in cities like
Aleppo and Antioch.
Journey to Baghdad
Al Maari’s quest for intellectual growth took him to Baghdad, the heart of
Medieval civilization. Here, he hoped to gain recognition from the Abbasid
Caliph and the Arab nobility. However, after 18 months without the
acknowledgment he sought, he returned to his village disheartened.
Advocacy for Veganism
Throughout his life, Al Maari was a staunch advocate for veganism. His
beliefs were deeply rooted in the principles of non-violence and compassion
towards all living creatures. He opposed all forms of violence and believed
that no living being should be harmed. His ethical stance on veganism was
not just a personal choice but a philosophical commitment that he expressed
through his poetry and writings.
Literary Contributions
Al Maari’s dedication to his vegan beliefs is evident in his literary works.
He promoted ethical values towards animals and opposed the exploitation of
nature. His poems, such as “I No Longer Steal From Nature,” reflect his deep
aversion to causing harm to animals and the environment. These works
continue to resonate with modern audiences, highlighting the timeless
relevance of his ideas.
Legacy
Al Maari’s life and work offer a compelling example of how medieval
perspectives on animals and ethics can align closely with contemporary
views. His advocacy for veganism and non-violence remains progressive even
by today’s standards, making him a remarkable figure in the history of
ethical thought.
In conclusion, Abu Al Alaa Ahmad ibn Abdullah Al Maari’s life and philosophy
challenge the misconception that medieval views on animals were vastly
different from ours. His unwavering commitment to veganism and non-violence
underscores the enduring relevance of his ideas and contributions to ethical
discourse.
Below is the English-translated version of Al Maarri's poem:
I no longer steal from Nature
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 that the bees get industriously
From the flowers of fragrant plants;
For they did not store it that it might belong to others,
Not did they gather it for bounty and gifts.
I washed my hands of all this;
And wish that I perceived my way
Before my hair went gray!
Posted on All-Creatures: October 9, 2024
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