Biography
Hafez (Khwaja Shams-ud-Din Muhammad Hafez-e Shirazi, circa 1315-1390) is considered the greatest lyric poet in the Persian language and one of the most celebrated poets in the world. Born and raised in Shiraz, Iran, Hafez spent most of his life in his beloved city, earning the title 'Lisan al-Ghaib' (Tongue of the Hidden). His collection of ghazals (lyric poems), known as the 'Divan-e Hafez,' is the most widely read book of poetry in the Persian-speaking world after the Quran. Iranians traditionally consult his poetry for guidance and fortune-telling (fal-e Hafez). Hafez's poetry is celebrated for its layered meanings, combining surface-level love poems with deep spiritual and mystical allegories. His works explore themes of divine love, the transience of life, and the human search for meaning. The tomb of Hafez in Shiraz is one of Iran's most visited tourist sites, and his poetry continues to be a living part of Iranian culture and daily life.
Awards & Honours
Greatest Persian Lyric Poet, UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Most Read Poetry after Quran