Al-Mutanabbi's most famous verses
The top 3 according to 0 votes from people: The horses, the night and the desert know me, / as do the sword, the spear, the paper and the pen. · I am the one whose literature the blind can see, / and whose words reach even the deaf. · Resolutions come in the measure of the resolute, / and noble deeds in the measure of the noble.. (Updated Feb 13, 2024.)
The verses of Abu al-Tayyib al-Mutanabbi (915–965), the great Arab poet, that became proverbs on everyone's lips: pride, wisdom and praise.
Automatically translated (original in العربية). See the original
Top 12
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1
The horses, the night and the desert know me, / as do the sword, the spear, the paper and the pen.
The most famous boast in Arabic poetry; legend says it cost him his life.
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2
I am the one whose literature the blind can see, / and whose words reach even the deaf.
One of his boasts.
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3
Resolutions come in the measure of the resolute, / and noble deeds in the measure of the noble.
Opening of an ode to Sayf al-Dawla.
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4
If you see the lion baring its teeth, / do not think the lion is smiling.
On wisdom.
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5
Not everything a man wishes for does he attain: / the winds blow where the ships do not desire.
The second half became a proverb of its own.
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6
If you honour the noble, you win him; / if you honour the base, he rebels.
On wisdom.
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7
Were it not for hardship, all men would be lords: / generosity impoverishes and daring kills.
On courage.
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8
If you hear me criticised by someone lacking, / that is the proof that I am complete.
One of his boasts.
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9
The intelligent man suffers in bliss because of his mind, / while the ignorant enjoys himself in misery.
On wisdom.
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10
Never belittle a small foe in a quarrel: / the mosquito can make the lion's eye bleed.
On wisdom.
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11
Live with honour, or die nobly / among the thrust of spears and the flutter of banners.
On dignity and pride.
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12
My visitor seems to be shy: / she only comes to see me in the dark.
Opening of his description of the fever that visited him at night in Egypt.
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