The Role of Poetry in Societal Dynamics

Poetry was a powerful medium in pre-Islamic Arabia, serving as both an art form and a tool for societal influence. Poets held significant status, often shaping public opinion and inciting conflict through their verses. They were able to convey messages that could elevate or diminish individuals and communities, including using poetry to malign the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the early Muslims. The podcast discusses how poetic attacks, particularly by figures like Ka'ab ibn Zuhayr, were meant to delegitimize the new movement of Islam, reflecting a broader societal tension between traditional values and the emerging Islamic message.