Abstract
The article examines the theoretical legacy of medieval Arabo-Islamic musical thought through the example of the treatise “Ad-Durr an-Naqī fī Fann al-Mūsīqā’’ (“The Pure Pearl in the Art of Music”), which belongs to the circle of followers of Safi al-Din al-Urmawi. Special attention is paid to the cosmological and ethical foundations of the maqam system, which is interpreted not as a purely technical pitch construction, but as a worldview model of the universe. The author analyzes the mystical origin of maqams, their connection with angelic glorification, prophets, celestial spheres, zodiacal constellations, and planetary hours. The classification of maqams according to the four elements – fire, earth, water, and air as well as their correlation with the letters of the Arabic alphabet is examined, reflecting the aspiration for symbolic unity of musical, poetic, and linguistic levels. Considerable attention is devoted to the psycho-energetic influence of maqams on listeners and practical recommendations for their performance depending on the temperament, social status, and spiritual disposition of the audience. In conclusion, the maqam system in the treatise fulfills therapeutic, ethical, and sacred functions, serving as a means of harmonizing the human soul and restoring the connection between the earthly and celestial realms.