Sarcouncil Journal of Arts and Literature Aims & Scope

Abstract: This article explores the concept and interpretation of the komil inson (the perfect human) as presented in the allegorical stories of Alisher Navoi’s poem Lison ut-Tayr (“The Language of the Birds”). Written in 1498 and inspired by Attar’s Mantiq al-Tayr, Navoi’s version reimagines the mystical quest of birds in search of their sovereign, the Simurgh, as a symbolic journey of the human soul toward perfection and divine unity. The narrative centers on the stages of spiritual development, where each bird’s confession reflects a particular human weakness, and the ultimate goal is the realization of komillik–the state of moral, intellectual, and spiritual completeness. Through rich metaphor, Sufi symbolism, and dialogic storytelling, Navoi outlines the essential traits of the perfect human: humility, self-knowledge, detachment from worldly desire, and unwavering devotion to the truth. The poem emphasizes that true perfection lies not in external achievements but in inner transformation and annihilation of the ego (fana). The article analyzes how Navoi uses these stories to construct a spiritual and philosophical ideal rooted in Islamic thought, particularly Sufism, while addressing universal questions of identity, purpose, and enlightenment. Ultimately, Lison ut-Tayr serves not only as a literary masterpiece but as a moral and mystical guide, offering readers a visionary path toward becoming the komil inson–the realized, awakened human being.