The Shadhuniya Maqama according to Ibn Ruzayq: Analytical Study

Abstract

This study aimed to highlight the significance of the Shadhuniyya Maqama by Ibn Raziq in Omani literature, as it represents one of the artistic forms that reflect Oman’s traditional and intellectual heritage. It sheds light on Ibn Raziq’s contributions as one of the authors of Arabic maqamat, focusing on the creative aspects that distinguish the Shadhuniyya Maqama compared to traditional Arabic maqamat, such as those of Al-Hamadhani and Al-Hariri. Additionally, the study explores the themes addressed in the Shadhuniyya Maqama, such as moral values and social issues. The study methodology adopted a scientific approach that combines artistic and descriptive analysis to uncover the maqama’s artistic and intellectual structure. The historical method was employed to trace the origins and evolution of the maqama genre up to Ibn Raziq, while the descriptive approach analyzed the maqama’s structure, linguistic style, and artistic formulation. The analytical method, which is central to the study, focused on dissecting the maqama’s artistic framework, including its style, language, plot, and characters. The study reached several key findings, including: 1. The Shadhuniyya Maqamais a valuable addition to the field of literary and critical studies. 2. Ibn Raziq’s maqamat reflect the originality of Omani literature and its impact on Arabic literature. Ibn Raziq introduced distinct features to the maqama genre by blending religious and literary ideas. 3. The study highlighted the moral and religious messages that formed the essence of Omani maqamat, such as honesty, courage, and piety. The researcher recommends encouraging students to explore maqamat as a standalone literary genre. It also calls for a deeper academic and research focus on maqamat in general and Omani maqamat in particular by editing and publishing additional texts by Ibn Raziq. This would further enhance the status of Omani literature within the broader context of Arabic and global literature while documenting Omani heritage as a reference for future generations.