Discussion Committee:
Prof. Ihsan al-Deke/suprvisor
Dr. Jamal Ghethan/external examiner
Dr. Nader Qasem/internal exminer
Supervisors:
Prof. Ihsan al-Deke/suprvisor
Authors:
Issa Hisham Hassan Salaymeh
Abstract:
This study looks into al-Nabigha al-Dhubyani's poetry from a new perspective. It concentrates on the "Al-Maurouth" (the Inherited), which can best be translated as the transmitted heritage during al-Jahilya pre-Islamic era; the Inherited includes religious, historical, mythological, and literary beliefs and practices. It focuses on al-Nabigha's expressive ability in reflecting this heritage and employing it in his poetry in an artistic and fascinating way through his choice of clear words and use of smooth musical rhythm, which reflects a real-life image for the religious, intellectual, social, cultural and political aspects of that time. His poetry gives good evidence for the poet's encyclopedic, cultural knowledge, experiences, tolerance and leadership. The poet's eloquence and expressive power made him a poetic arbiter in Souk Okaz. Later on, he flourished at the courts of al-Hirah in Iraq, and Ghassan in the Levant, two royal courts where he spent most of his time.
This study shows al-Nabigha's reflection on al-Jahilya religious beliefs and rituals. This is achieved through his mention of some religious figures like prophets Noah and Soloman, historical and legendary people including Luqman al-Hakeem (Luqman the Wise), Zarqa' al-Yamamah (Blue-eyed Yamamah), Ad son of Sam (Shem) son of Noah, and some old Arab Monarchs. He also mentions some ancient buildings and cities like Tadmor (City of Palmyra) in Syria, and al-Hirah in Iraq. Additionally, he talks about some Arab festive days like Halima's Day.
In his poetry, al-Nabigha followed the lines set by his predecessors and contemporary al-Jahilya pre-Islam poets who established the rules, meter, rhythm, and purposes for al-Maurouth, the Inherited, poetry. Though al-Nabigha followed these steps, his poetic purposes varied from the norm that was followed by his predecessors; he particularly excelled in the poetry of apology.
Following his flee from Abi Qabos, al-Hirah King, Al-Nabigha's poetry reflected agony, pain, and apology as well for the misunderstanding between Abi Qabos and him. Among the subjects he extensively talked about was Spring which was present as a result of the many wars among tribes over fertile lands. Although his poetry talked about his emotional states, most of his poetry was about the collective daily life of his tribe, society, and environment, out of which aspects he took his expressions, meanings, artistic images, and poetic purposes.