"Between the Ram of Nu'man and the Camel of the Prophet Saleh - Peace Be Upon Him: A Comparative Study between the Pre-Islamic Poet 'Ilaba' Ibn 'Arqam Al-Yashkuri and Qudar Ibn Salif,"
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Abstract
This research delves into the narrative of the ram belonging to Al-Nu’man ibn
Al-Mundhir and its executioner, 'Ilba’ ibn Arqam Al-Yashkuri. It also explores
the poem composed by 'Ilba' as an apology to the ruler of Al-Hira, Al-Nu’man
ibn Al-Mundhir, wherein he elucidates the rationale behind slaughtering the ram.
This research draws parallels between this narrative and the tale of the camel of
the Prophet Saleh (peace be upon him) and its barrenness, particularly noting the
temporal gap that separates the two stories. Yet, both narratives are united by a
shared sense of psychological tension colored by a spirit of defiance. 'Ilba' bin
Arqam experienced marital discord that culminated in him slaughtering Al-
Nu’man bin Al-Mundhir's ram. Following this act, he confronted the ruler to
defend his actions, akin to the camel incident involving Qudar bin Salif. In
Qudar's case, his camel brought misfortune and calamity upon himself and his
people. This research will undertake a comparative analysis of the two
narratives, exploring their commonalities and disparities. It will critically assess
'Ilba’s poem, subjecting it to analysis and offering a fresh interpretation by
examining historical accounts, especially those found in the writings of
historians such as Al-Maqdisi, Mutahhar ibn Tahir (d. 355 AH/966 AD), and Ibn
Al-'Athir, Muhammad Ibn Shayban (d. 606 AH/1210 AD). Additionally, it will consider the historical, anthropological, mythological, political, and cultural
dimensions of the text.