Semantic Development in Ibn al-Abbār al-Andalusī’s Hā’iyya Poem

Abstract

Poetry holds great importance in enriching the Arabic language. It is one of its foundational pillars and plays a vital role in conveying the true essence of words, particularly in the verses and poems of classical Arabic poetry, which fill the historical record of the language from the pre-Islamic era through the subsequent ages. In this context, we focus on poetry during the Abbasid era and the linguistic development reflected in the vocabulary of that time. Many expressions underwent clear semantic shifts, which are almost invariably present in every poem from that periodied One notable example is the (Hā’iyyah of Ibn al-Abbār al-Andalusī), which demonstrates numerous features of semantic change. This reflects the poet’s precision in expression and the eloquence of his diction, even when the meanings of words had evolvedied.

I also found an exhortation to confront the enemy that had settled in the lands of al-Andalus, emphasizing the necessity of fighting them and expelling them from the territory. The poet, Ibn al-Abbar, frequently employs metaphors and similes to present a vivid image to the reader, providing precise and expressive details of the reality at hand. It also becomes clear that many of the terms used have shifted from their literal meanings to acquire new connotations—a phenomenon we have termed "semantic evolution." Furthermore, although most of these terms have departed from their original significations, there remains an underlying thread that unifies both their literal and evolved meanings. In these verses, we also observe the use of praise and commendation, which the poet directs toward Abu Zakariya upon his pledge of allegiance—received from Abdullah al-Hazraji, the ruler of Sijilmasa, in the year 640 AH. This context explains Ibn al-Abbar’s choice of specific vocabulary related to praise, such as "fortune confronts those who oppose him" and "God has built and established a dominion for him," among other similar expressions.