The Nature of Intertextuality in the Religious Poetry of Mashkhur Zhusip Kopeuly

Abstract

This article explores the nature of intertextuality in the religious poetry of Mashkhur Zhusip Kopeuly (1858–1931), a prominent Kazakh poet and Islamic scholar. Drawing on Qur' anic references, hadiths, and Sufi motifs, his poetic discourse fuses Islamic sacred traditions with native Kazakh linguistic and cultural forms. The study aims to investigate how intertextual structures function in his works both aesthetically and theologically. It begins by outlining a typology of intertextuality in religious texts, followed by an in-depth analysis of poetic excerpts containing Qur' anic allusions and prophetic sayings. The methodology combines close textual analysis with cultural hermeneutics, paying particular attention to religious formulae, metaphoric expressions, and poetic rhythm that reflect Islamic ethical teachings. Special emphasis is placed on the integration of shahada formulas, du' aic structures, and Qur' anic verses into Kazakh poetic syntax. The findings reveal that Kopeuly's poems function not only as aesthetic compositions but also as vehicles for spiritual instruction and cultural transmission. Intertextual references are shown to reinforce communal values, provide moral guidance, and elevate the performative aspect of religious poetry. The paper argues that Mashkhur Zhusip's works form a localized model of Islamic poetics that aligns with Central Asian traditions while contributing uniquely to Islamic literary heritage. The study contributes to current debates on Islamic intertextuality, religious poetics, and the role of vernacular literary forms in theological expression.