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عَلْقَمَ ، مَا أَنْت َ إِلَى عامر by Unknown — Analysis & Translation

2 min read Arabic

Original Poem

عَلْقَمَ ، مَا أَنْت َ إِلَى عامر النَّاقِضِ الْأَوْتَارُ وَالْوَاتِر

Translation (English)

Alqama, what are you to 'Amir The breaker of strings and the one who avenges

About the Poet

Unknown (Classical Arabic Poetry)

The poem is part of the classical Arabic poetry tradition, which dates back to pre-Islamic times and includes a rich history of oral and written poetry. Classical poetry often follows strict metrical patterns and is known for its eloquence and depth.

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Historical Context

Literary Form
Classical Arabic poetry
When Written
Classical era (pre-Islamic to early Islamic period)
Background
The poem reflects the traditional themes of Arabic poetry, such as tribal pride, valor, and the complexities of human relationships. It may have been composed to convey a message of strength and resilience.

Sources: https://tafsir.app/ibn-aashoor/4/35, https://www.altafsir.com/Tafasir.asp?tMadhNo=7&tTafsirNo=54&tSoraNo=4&tAyahNo=35&tDisplay=yes&UserProfile=0&LanguageId=1, https://quran-tafsir.net/ashour/sura4-aya35.html, http://www.moqatel.com/openshare/Behoth/Fenon-Elam/poetry/sec13.doc_cvt.htm, https://ketabonline.com/ar/books/600/read?part=1&page=36&index=456172

Detailed Explanation

This poem is a classical Arabic piece, likely from the pre-Islamic or early Islamic period. It features a dialogue or statement directed at 'Amir, a figure described as 'the breaker of strings and the avenger.' This imagery suggests themes of strength, retribution, and perhaps a critique or challenge to 'Amir's actions or character. The poem's language is typical of classical Arabic poetry, which often employs metaphor and allusion to convey deeper meanings. The mention of 'breaking strings' could symbolize disrupting harmony or balance, while 'avenger' implies a role of justice or vengeance. Such themes were common in tribal and warrior poetry, reflecting the social and cultural values of the time.

Themes

  • Strength
  • Retribution
  • Challenge

Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: 'breaker of strings' symbolizes disruption or challenge.
  • Allusion: Reference to 'Amir's character or actions.
  • Imagery: Vivid depiction of strength and vengeance.

Word Dictionary

Word Meaning Translation Transliteration
عَلْقَمَ اسم شخص A person's name Alqama
مَا ماذا What maa
أَنْت أنت You yourself anta
إِلَى نحو To ilaa
عامر اسم شخص A person's name 'Amir
النَّاقِضِ الذي يكسر The breaker an-naaqid
الْأَوْتَارُ الأوتار Musical strings al-awtaar
وَ و Also wa
الْوَاتِر المنتقم The avenger al-waatir

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