Rabidh conveys speed and dexterity; qidāḥ denotes featherless arrows used for drawing lots in pre-Islamic practice; malūm is someone reproached by others.
The defeated opponent is portrayed not merely as skilled in arms but as socially prominent and extravagantly prodigal. His importance raises the stakes of the duel in the poet’s narrative.
Opening interactive controls...
ʿAntarah ibn Shaddād: Cavalry Witnesses, Courage, Restraint and Duels (verses 43–56)
Rabidh conveys speed and dexterity; qidāḥ denotes featherless arrows used for drawing lots in pre-Islamic practice; malūm is someone reproached by others.
The defeated opponent is portrayed not merely as skilled in arms but as socially prominent and extravagantly prodigal. His importance raises the stakes of the duel in the poet’s narrative.