الدَّوَائِرُ العَرُوضِيَّةُ وأَثَرُهَا فِي بِنَاءِ النِّظَامِ الإِيقَاعِيِّ لِلشِّعْرِ العَرَبِيِّ: دَائِرَةُ المُجْتَلَبِ أُنْمُوذَجًا

Prosodic Circles and Their Impact on the Rhythmic Structure of Arabic Poetry:The Mujtalab Circle as a Model Study

Abstract

This study examines the concept of prosodic circles (al-dawāʾir al-ʿarūḍiyyah) in Arabic prosody, with a particular focus on the Mujtalab Circle, which includes the poetic meters of al-Hazaj, al-Rajaz, and al-Ramal. The research aims to clarify the theoretical foundations of prosodic circles as developed by Al-Khalil ibn Ahmad al-Farahidi, who introduced a systematic and innovative method for classifying Arabic poetic meters based on patterns of syllabic structure, including causes (asbāb) and pegs (awtād).

The study highlights how these circles function as a structural framework that reveals the interrelationship between different poetic meters. Special attention is given to the Hazaj meter as the original form within the Mujtalab Circle, analyzing its rhythmic structure, patterns, and poetic usage.

Furthermore, the research explores the prosodic variations, including zihāfāt (metrical modifications) and ʿilal (metrical defects), and their influence on the rhythmic flow of poetry.

The methodology adopted in this study is descriptive and analytical, relying on the examination of classical examples to demonstrate theoretical concepts.The findings indicate that prosodic circles provide a coherent and systematic approach to understanding Arabic poetic rhythm. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating theoretical and applied approaches in teaching Arabic prosody. It concludes that the Mujtalab Circle plays a significant role in illustrating the flexibility and richness of Arabic poetic meters.