THE MOTIF OF JOURNEY IN THE WORKS OF MAKHTUMKULI

Abstract

This article analyzes the theme of journey in the works of Magtymguly Pyragy as a reflection of a person’s life path and spiritual quest. While traveling to major centers of enlightenment like Khiva and Bukhara in search of knowledge, the poet encounters not only physical hardships but also the emotional pain of being away from his loved ones and family. While the heroic journeys in epics like “Alpomish” or “Gorogly” are primarily directed against external enemies, in Magtymguly’s poetry, this motif rises to the level of personal inner experiences and mystical (gnostic) exploration. In his work, the concept of journey serves for spiritual elevation and the discipline of the soul (nafs). For the poet, "ghurbat" (wandering) is not merely being far from one’s homeland, but rather a representation of the human soul’s temporary existence in this world.