Browse Tag
Classical Arabic
23 posts
Classical Arabic (العربية الفصحى) is the form of the Arabic language used in literary texts mainly from the 7th to the 9th centuries, including the Holy Qur’an.
A Step-by-Step Method for Researching the Meaning of Ancient Arabic Words
Understanding words in old Arabic texts, especially pre-Islamic poetry, can be a challenge. This article provides a step-by-step approach to uncover the historical meanings of words like "مَخَارِيقٌ," guiding you through classical Arabic dictionaries and historical linguistic resources to accurately interpret ancient verses.
The 70 Most Important Arabic Words for Camels (And What They Reveal About Culture)
Older Arabic dictionaries list hundreds of words for "camel." This article explores 70 important terms reflecting the camel's significance in Arab culture, covering generic names, age-based terms, characteristics, sounds, and group names by number.
Who Was Sibawayhi? Meet the Persian Scholar Who Defined Arabic Grammar
"Al-Kitaab" is more than a textbook; it's Sibawayhi's monumental Arabic grammar. This article explores the life of the brilliant Persian grammarian and his enduring contribution to Arabic linguistic science.
“How a dive trip to Egypt led a 14-year-old to teach himself Arabic” | Georg Binder | 9273 Roots #29
Long before the internet, a dive trip to Egypt inspired 14-year-old Georg Binder to teach himself Arabic in his small Austrian town. He discusses his lifelong passion, his love for Khalil Gibran's The Prophet, and his "have a go" approach to mastering the Egyptian dialect.
“If only I were happy with my fate, I would be free” | Yehia Moldan | 9273 Roots #24
Yehia Moldan is a Palestinian writer and graphic designer who takes Arabic calligraphy to a new level. Now based in Sweden, he discusses his favorite historical novel about Ibn Khaldun, the beauty of the word for "reflection", and the classical poetry that inspires his modern art.
How Do You Say ‘To Be Very Red’ in Arabic? The Power of Verb Forms XI-XV
Often overlooked, Arabic verb forms XI to XV are crucial for a deeper understanding of the language. This guest article by Reginald Hefner explains these "rare" verbs, their meanings, and how they intensify expression in contemporary Arabic texts.
The 5 Greatest Western Scholars of Arabic Grammar
This subjective list features the top five Arabic grammarians from Europe. It highlights pioneers like Edward Lane (Lane's Lexicon) and Hans Wehr, discussing their contributions to Arabic language study and the historical interest in Arabic in the West.
Best Arabic Grammar Books: From Beginner to Advanced
A curated list of indispensable Arabic grammar books, drawing from years of intensive study. This selection covers Nahw, Sarf, and various dialects, providing vital resources for Arabic learners.
“Every time I cried because of it, I cried for it when it’s gone” | Mahmoud Gomah | 9273 Roots #12
He's the award-winning Egyptian poet and linguist who isn't afraid to correct the common grammatical mistakes of native speakers. Mahmoud Gomah discusses his work as an editor, his love for the poetry of Ahmed Shawqi, and why he considers the Egyptian dialect a language in its own right.
“I’m a practical Arabic linguist” | Hossam Abouzahr | 9273 Roots #3
Hossam Abouzahr, the visionary behind Lughatuna (Living Arabic), delves into his journey building comprehensive online dictionaries for Arabic dialects, MSA, and Classical Arabic.
