I just bought a new collection of Qasida Burda - a masterpiece poem that was written by Egyptian Sufi scholar, Imam Sharifuddin al-Busiri. I am quite happy right now! Can't really wait for the parcel to be delivered at my door.
I had already purchased the commercial version of this Qasida Burda that was published by Guidance Media. You can go here to see that version. This version was sung by Ahbab al-Mustafa, the most recognized nasheed artist in the Hijjaz. However, I can't really wait for the next volume to be released. That volume only has 6 chapters out of 10 chapters in total. So, the remaining 4 chapters will be recorded in volume 2. By the way, Ahbab al-Mustafa sings the Qasida Burda beautifully in an original Yemeni nasheed style.
However, in the version that I bought today, The Burda, it was sung in an Andalusian style by Fez Singers - a Moroccan nasheed artist. This Burda is one of major project of Sheikh Hamza Yusuf. I personally think this version is more soul-lifting and more harmony than the previous one. But, I can't really judge it since I only listened to the samples given. Good point about this version is that, it has a total 10 chapters and its length spreads over 3 CDs. The bad point? Of course, the price is higher than Ahbab al-Mustafa. But, I will never regret for this investment. It worths my money. It got 3 CDs and a book contains the lyric and English translation of original Qasida Burda.
Although Alhambra Productions has discounted the price of The Burda, I did not buy from there since I can't register. I don't know what is their problem. Only people from UK, Australia, US, UAE, Canada and Malaysia can register easily without any need to call them by phone! This annoys me.
So I googled the web to find other online stores that sell The Burda in a very reasonable and affordable price. At last I found this store. The price is undiscounted, but I get a free bonus book and the shipping and handling cost is cheaper than the Alhambra Productions.
You may found this link very helpful if you want to get a basic history of Qasida Burda. I also want you to read this article from BBC. The following is extracted from the last paragraph:
Imam al-Busiri died in Alexandria, Egypt in the year 1295 CE. His grave is well known and is connected to a large mosque. His poem embellishes its walls. The Burda was also engraved on the Prophet's mosque in Madina, upon its inhabitant be the best of prayers and peace. There it adorned its walls and reminded believers for centuries before being erased by people who could not comprehend it. There is still one line left that has not been removed:
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As arms against a host of relentless calamities.