Imru’ al-Qais
Imru’ al-Qais bin Hajar bin al-Harith al-Kindi was born in 130 B.C. in Najd, Yemen. He is renowned as one of the most celebrated poets in Arab literature. His father was a king of the tribes of Asad and Ghatafan, and his maternal uncle was the famous poet Al-Muhalhal. Notably, Imru’ al-Qais began composing poetry at a young age. He often associated with the outlaws of Arabia, which displeased his father. Despite his father’s disapproval, he continued this lifestyle. At the age of twenty, his father sent him to Hadramawt, the homeland of his father and kin, where he spent nearly five years indulging in entertainment and play. His life took a tragic turn when the Banu Asad tribe revolted against his father, leading to his father’s death. Upon learning of the news, he lamented: “May my father rest in peace! He neglected me in my youth and burdened me with his blood in adulthood; there is neither sobriety today nor intoxication tomorrow; today is for wine and tomorrow is for vengeance.” He persisted until he exacted revenge on the Banu Asad and penned many poems regarding this conflict.
Antarah ibn Shaddad
Antarah ibn Shaddad ibn Amr ibn Muawiya ibn Qarad al-Absi hailed from Najd. His mother, an Ethiopian named Zubaiba, bequeathed him the dark hue of his skin. Antarah is celebrated as one of the foremost poets and knights of pre-Islamic Arabia. Despite his fierce nature, he was known for his patience and noble spirit. His poetry was characterized by its sweetness and emotional depth. Antarah fell in love with his cousin Abla, and her name frequently appears in his verses. He lived a long life, witnessing the famous battles of Dahis and al-Ghabra, ultimately meeting his end at the hands of a fierce lion.
Zurair bin Abi Sulma
Zurair bin Abi Sulma was one of the pre-Islamic poets who did not embrace Islam. It is believed he hailed from the Mudar tribe. He is known for his poetry that reflects his belief in resurrection, and he was reputed for his integrity in not praising someone beyond their merits. It is worth noting that many poets of his time praised him, claiming that no other poet of the pre-Islamic era exhibited the same level of excellence as Zurair. He was given the title “the Wise of Poets” among his contemporaries. His father and sister, Al-Khansa, as well as his sons Ka’b and Bajir, were also poets. Zurair would often compose his verses within a single month, taking a whole year to refine and polish them for publication.