The rhetorical devices in the dīvān of Abdullah b. Al-Mubārak

Abdullāh b. al-Mubārak was a prominent scholar, man of letters, and poet of the early Abbasid period. Regarded as one of the leading figures of the Tābiʿ al-Tābiʿīn generation, Ibn al-Mubārak distinguished himself not only in poetry but also in various Islamic sciences such as ḥadīth, fiqh, tafsīr, history, grammar, and linguistics. His poems are of particular significance in terms of both content and rhetorical artistry. Accordingly, this study aims to identify the badīʿ (rhetorical embellishments) employed in his Dīwān, and to analyze the aesthetic and semantic values these devices contribute to the poetic structure. To achieve this, the themes of the poems in the Dīwān have been classified, and the manner in which these themes are treated has been evaluated. The research draws upon foundational classical sources of Arabic rhetoric as well as contemporary studies. The badīʿ devices found in the text have been identified and subjected to a detailed rhetorical analysis. Although Ibn al-Mubārak's Dīwān has been the focus of multiple academic studies, its rhetorical dimensions have not been examined in sufficient depth. Therefore, this study considers the exploration of his poetic style from the perspective of badīʿ arts to be both necessary and valuable. The analysis reveals that Ibn al-Mubārak consciously avoids artificiality in his use of rhetorical ornamentation. His poetry is characterized by a simple and accessible language, through which he seeks to convey his intended messages with clarity. Grounded in real-life experiences and moral reflection, his verses retain their relevance today. Through poetry, Ibn al-Mubārak sought to dissuade people from immoral behavior and to guide them toward a virtuous life. Though known for his gentle and humble nature, the poet did not hesitate to adopt a direct and stern tone when criticizing individuals or sects he considered misguided or deviant.