"The Introduction of the Panegyric Poem in the Ottoman Era Abd al-Ghani al-Nabulusi as a Mode

Abstract

This study explores the introductory section of the panegyric poem during the Ottoman era, through an applied study of the poetry of Abd al-Ghani al-Nabulusi—one of the most prominent poets of his time. It sheds light on the artistic, symbolic, and communicative dimensions of these introductions, highlighting its role as a vital poetic component rich in aesthetic and rhetorical functions.

The research adopts a descriptive-analytical method, supplemented by a historical approach, to trace the cultural, religious, and social influences on the development of this literary phenomenon. The study reveals the diversity in Nabulusi's panegyric introductions, encompassing themes such as love, ruins, nostalgia, nature, and journeys. These reflect a fusion of personal and public themes, tradition and innovation, and mysticism with poetic expression.

Furthermore, the research highlights rhetorical and stylistic techniques employed by Nabulusi—such as eloquent openings, paronomasia, repetition, and parallelism—which add rhythmic and artistic depth to his poetry. This study contributes to filling a gap in literary criticism by analyzing a frequently overlooked element in classical Arabic poetry: the poem’s introduction, reaffirming its central role in shaping the structure and identity of Ottoman panegyric poetry