The Mu'allaqah of the pre-Islamic poet Amr ibn Kulthum is one of the most stunningly beautiful poems in Arabic. In this episode we dive in deep, trying to understand the meanings and brilliance behind these Arabic lines.

Arabic Qahwa (Learn Quranic Arabic)

The Poetry of Amr ibn Kulthum (Commentary)

"I don’t ascend high mountains, except because of love     And I don’t sing poetry, except as medicine" Listen to one of the most moving poems in Arabic literature, where Majnun Layla expresses his pain over losing his lover - Layla. And listen to what Layla had to say in reply to him.

Majun Layla – the man who lost his mind for love

Imru' al-Qays, was known as the wandering king, because he spent his life seeking revenge, and the re-establishment of his father's lost kingdom. He is sometimes referred to as the father of Arabic poetry, because he established many of the conventions and themes in Arabic poetry - which the poets after him followed. However, he wasn't always concerned about power and vengeance. He spent his youth as a 'playboy', chasing women and drinking. What made him special is his way with words. He puts his experiences, emotions and pain into his mesmerizing poetry.

The Poems of Imru’al-Qays

We take a look through the eyes of Arabic literature at the art of praising oneself. Some poets were shameless when it came to self-promotion. But is this a good idea? Are there lessons to be learned? In this episode we will go through the poetry of Hatim at-Ta'iyy and Al-Mutanabbi said in Fakhr (self-exaltation)

The Art of Praising Yourself

Listen to this Bizarre story from the pre-Islamic period where a war was fought for over 40 years between the tribes of Taghlib and Bakr over the killing of a camel. Listen to the stories of Kulayb, Jassas, Zir Salim, al-Harith ibn Ubad and more.

The War of Basus

An introduction to the Mu'allaqat or the Hanging odes. These are 7 poems that represent the finest of pre-Islamic Arabic poetry. The study of pre-Islamic poetry offers much insight into the language and the depth of its meanings and usages.

The Mu’allaqat – Hanging Odes – Part 2

An introduction to the Mu'allaqat or the Hanging odes. These are 7 poems that represent the finest of pre-Islamic Arabic poetry. The study of pre-Islamic poetry offers much insight into the language and the depth of its meanings and usages. This is part 1.

The Mu’allaqat – Hanging Odes – Part 1

Abu Isḥāq al-Ilbīrī al-Tujībī (d. 459 AH / 1067 CE) is said to have written this poem in response to a young man who had insulted him. Instead of replying in kind, which was the custom of poets, he decided to respond by providing the young man advice that would benefit him in this life and the next. This is part 2 of the explanation and commentary on this poem which will hopefully help you appreciate it even more insha’Allah. Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084F57389 Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B084F57389 Amazon DE: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B084F57389 Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B084F57389

The Poem of Ilbiri – On Leading a Purposeful Life – Part 2

Abu Isḥāq al-Ilbīrī al-Tujībī (d. 459 AH / 1067 CE) is said to have written this poem in response to a young man who had insulted him. Instead of replying in kind, which was the custom of poets, he decided to respond by providing the young man advice that would benefit him in this life and the next. This is part 1 of the explanation and commentary on this poem which will hopefully help you appreciate it even more insha'Allah. Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084F57389 Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B084F57389 Amazon DE: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B084F57389 Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B084F57389

The Poem of Ilbiri – On Leading a Purposeful Life – Part 1

In this episode, we will go through the wonderful book 'Hilyatu Talibil 'Ilm' by Sheikh Bakr Abu Zaid with the Sharh of Ibn Uthaymeen. The book talks about the etiquettes of seeking knowledge. The first chapter deals with correcting one's intention (niyah) when seeking knowledge.

Reading the Hilyat Talibil Ilm

The amazing story of how Muhammad al Andalusi went to Mauritania in search of knowledge. This interview offers some amazing insight into the life a talib ul ilm (a student of knowledge) living in Mauritania, and the methodology of teaching there. A must-listen for everyone who loves Arabic and knowledge in general. If you are interested in ustad Muhammad's course, get started here: https://muhammadandalusi.com/webinar

Living the life in Mauritania – Muhammad Al Andalusi

In this awesome episode with ustad Moustafa Elqabbany, professional translator and poet, we reflect on some amazing lines from the poem of Al-Ilbiri. Find out how this poem can really hit you hard, if you comprehend its meanings. Resources and books: موصل الطلاب إلى قواعد الإعراب لخالد الأزهري The Routledge Encyclopedia of Arabic Literature

Reflections on Al-Ilbiri with Moustafa Elqabbany (Translator and Poet)

What does the knowledge of Adab entail and what are its various benefits? Listens to the intriguing story behind the name 'Adab' and the many reasons why the books of Adab should be part of every library.

Why should you read Adab (Arabic literature)

In this episode of the Arabic Qahwa Podcast, we discuss the importance of having a physical library at your house and the various advantages it brings. With the widespread availability of free Arabic books in the digital format, you might wonder if it is still worth the effort and cost to acquire printed books. Listen to the episode to find out why buying printed books might still be worth the additional effort and also get some tips on how to buy and import Arabic books and save money.

Should you buy physical Arabic books?

A passion based approach to getting things done.

Stop Asking How Long Will It Take! – Passion vs Deadlines

A deed-dive into the world of classical Arabic – Learning Inspiration, Poetry, History and so much more. A must-listen for every classical/Fusha Arabic learner

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Arabic Qahwa (Learn Quranic Arabic)

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