Definition
Abu al-Ala al-Maari (أبو العلاء المعري) (973-1058 CE) was an esteemed classical Arabic-language poet, philosopher, and writer who remains noteworthy for his qasidah (panegyric) and ghazal (lyric) poetry. His acclaimed work, Luzumiyyat, stands out for its stringent self-imposed requirements in meter and rhyme, demonstrating his exceptional linguistic proficiency.
Etymology and Background
Al-Maari’s full name was Ahmad ibn Abdallah ibn Sulaiman Al-Ma’arri. Born in the Ma’arrat al-Nu’man region of Syria, his epithet Al-Maari originates from his hometown, Ma’arra. Losing his eyesight to smallpox at the age of four, he flourished academically under his mother’s care and guidance, immersing himself in extensive readings of Arabic literature.
Historical Facts and Dates
- Birth: Abbasid Caliphate, 973 CE in Ma’arrat al-Nu’man, Syria.
- Blindness: Contracted smallpox at age four, resulting in loss of sight.
- Death: 1058 CE, having left an indelible mark on Arabic literary tradition.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Al-Maari’s work often addressed universal themes such as the futility of human endeavor, death, and the role of fate - themes explored by poets across various cultures. Unlike many contemporary poets, he openly criticized established religious doctrines and societal norms:
Similarities:
- Like the Persian poet Omar Khayyam, al-Maari challenged orthodox religious beliefs and explored existential themes.
Differences:
- Unlike many contemporaries who exalted religious obeisance, al-Maari critiqued religious hypocrisy and stressed deeds over dogma.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Poet: شاعر (sha`ir)
Antonyms:
- Believer: مؤمن (mu’min)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Qasidah (قصيدة): A form of Arabic poetry traditionally used for panegyric, often marked by a lofty, formal style.
- Ghazal (غزل): A lyrical form of poetry that addresses themes of love, both divine and temporal.
- Luzumiyyat (لزوميات): The poetic work of al-Maari, notable for its complex and self-imposed stylistic rules.
Exciting Facts
- Al-Maari was an ethical vegetarian, critical of harming any living creatures.
- Luzumiyyat implies “necessities,” referring to the intricacies of meter and rhyme that al-Maari adhered to, despite them not being externally imposed.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“This harmless trouble-maker mocked the conventions of justice, and at each festive event, he observed and condemned hypocrisy.” — Sahar Toufiq
Further Readings
- “The Poet and the Philosopher: Abu al-Ala al-Maari” by Dr. Muhammad Ali handid-Ali
- “Rebel with a Cause: The Subversive Voice of al-Maari” by Zaynab Al-Khatib
Inspirational Farewell
“In every verse he wrote, Abu al-Ala al-Maari seeks to awaken our senses and challenge our collective conscience. May his words inspire you to think critically and act justly.”
