The Number of Mu’allaqat in Pre-Islamic Arabic Poetry
The Mu’allaqat (Arabic: المعلقات), often translated as “The Suspended Odes,” hold a significant place in the history of Arabic literature, especially in the realm of pre-Islamic poetry, known as the jahiliyyah period (the Age of Ignorance). These poems represent the pinnacle of early Arabic poetic art and are considered some of the most important works in the Arabic literary canon. But how many Mu’allaqat were there, and what was the historical and literary significance of these works?
Origins and Meaning of “Mu’allaqat”
The term Mu’allaqat literally means “the suspended ones,” which suggests that these poems were of such extraordinary quality that they were metaphorically “hung” or “suspended” in the most prominent places. According to some historical accounts, they were even displayed in the Kaaba in Mecca, the holiest site in Islam. This image evokes the idea of these poems being “immortalized” or enshrined as exemplary works of art.
These poems were composed by pre-Islamic poets in the 6th century, long before the rise of Islam. The poets who authored them were known for their eloquence, mastery of the Arabic language, and the deep emotional and intellectual themes they explored. The Mu’allaqat were highly revered in their time and remain celebrated as monumental achievements in Arabic literature.
The Number of Mu’allaqat
Traditionally, there are said to be seven Mu’allaqat, although some versions of the list might vary. The number seven has been symbolic in many cultures, and its use in this context may have served to emphasize the exceptional nature of these works. The most commonly accepted list of the seven Mu’allaqat includes the following poets and their famous odes:
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Imru’ al-Qais (المُرُوءَ القَيْس)
- Known as the “king of the pre-Islamic poets,” Imru’ al-Qais is often considered the greatest of all pre-Islamic poets. His poem, often called the Mu’allaqat in its own right, is celebrated for its passionate descriptions of love, loss, and the wanderings of a tribal youth.
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Tarafa ibn al-Abd (طَرَفَة بن العبد)
- A member of the Banu Abd al-Dar tribe, Tarafa’s Mu’allaqat reflects his rebellious spirit, exploring themes of futility, death, and life’s fleeting pleasures. His work is marked by sharp, poignant imagery and profound existential reflections.
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Zuhayr ibn Abi Sulma (زُهَيْر بن أبي سُلْمَى)
- A poet who, unlike many of his contemporaries, emphasized the virtues of peace and reconciliation, Zuhayr’s Mu’allaqat is notable for its moral and ethical tone. He is regarded as a wise and composed poet.
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Antara ibn Shaddad (عَنترة بن شداد)
- Famous for his valor and his status as a legendary Arab hero, Antara’s poetry focuses heavily on themes of honor, love, and war. His Mu’allaqat convey a deep sense of personal and social honor, particularly in his expressions of love for his beloved Abla.
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Al-Harith ibn Hilliza (الحارث بن حلزة)
- One of the lesser-known figures among the Mu’allaqat poets, al-Harith was a member of the Taghlib tribe, and his poetry often deals with themes of tribalism, loyalty, and the bonds of kinship.
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Al-Nabigha al-Dhubyani (النابغة الذبياني)
- Al-Nabigha was a court poet known for his sophisticated language and ability to serve his patrons well. His Mu’allaqat are characterized by their elegant style and balanced moral vision.
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Labid ibn Rabi’ah (لبيد بن ربيعة)
- Labid’s poetry reflects his journey from a warrior to a more reflective and contemplative figure. His work often delves into the themes of death, fate, and the transient nature of life.
While these seven poets are most commonly listed, there are some variations in the exact lineup of the Mu’allaqat. Some sources mention eight or even ten, with poets like Al-Asha or Amr ibn Kulthum sometimes included in the list. However, the seven poets traditionally associated with the Mu’allaqat are the most universally accepted.
The Literary Significance of the Mu’allaqat
The Mu’allaqat represent the zenith of pre-Islamic Arabic poetry, showcasing the linguistic richness, depth of thought, and cultural values of the time. These poems were composed in the qasida form, a classical Arabic poetic structure that typically consists of long lines, intricate rhyme schemes, and a rhythmic flow that allows for a wide range of expression.
The Mu’allaqat offer a window into the life, customs, and worldview of the pre-Islamic Arabs. The poets often used their works to comment on issues such as honor, love, war, and the role of fate. Their eloquent expressions of personal and communal identity reflect the values of tribalism that dominated the Arabian Peninsula during this period. At the same time, the poets’ deep engagement with universal themes of loss, yearning, and existential reflection provides insights that transcend the particularities of their cultural context.
Moreover, the Mu’allaqat highlight the role of poetry as both an artistic and social force. Poetry in pre-Islamic Arabia was not just a form of entertainment but a means of recording history, asserting social status, and asserting political influence. For this reason, the Mu’allaqat were highly regarded not only for their aesthetic merit but also for their political and cultural significance.
The Influence of the Mu’allaqat on Later Arabic Literature
The Mu’allaqat have had an enduring influence on Arabic literature, and their legacy can be seen in the poetry of later generations. In the Islamic period, poets like Al-Mutanabbi and Abu Tammam drew on the stylistic and thematic traditions established by the poets of the Mu’allaqat. These later poets also used the qasida form and adopted similar approaches to themes of honor, love, and fate.
Additionally, the Mu’allaqat became a key part of the classical Arabic curriculum, often studied by scholars and students of literature. Their intricate use of metaphor, rhyme, and rhythm served as a model for later poets. Even in contemporary Arabic poetry, echoes of the Mu’allaqat can be found, both in terms of style and thematic content.
Conclusion
The Mu’allaqat stand as monumental pillars of pre-Islamic Arabic literature, representing the high point of poetic achievement during the jahiliyyah period. While the exact number of Mu’allaqat may vary slightly, the seven poets traditionally associated with these “suspended odes” have left an indelible mark on the Arabic literary tradition. Their works continue to be revered for their aesthetic beauty, intellectual depth, and cultural significance, offering valuable insights into the values and worldview of the pre-Islamic Arabs. The Mu’allaqat are not only relics of a bygone era but living texts that continue to inspire and inform the study of Arabic poetry and literature to this day.