madḥ

The term "madḥ" (or "madh") refers to a genre of Arabic poetry that focuses on praise. This form of poetry was significant from pre-Islamic times through the Islamic centuries, often used to extol the virtues of tribes, leaders, and rulers. Poets would compose odes to praise heroes, celebrate achievements, and bolster the self-esteem of their patrons, with the expectation of reward.1

The maqāmah is a related Arabic literary genre that presents entertaining anecdotes, often featuring rogues or beggars, written in elegant, rhymed prose. These stories are designed to showcase the author's eloquence and erudition. The first collection of maqāmāt was by al-Hamadhānī, and the genre was further established by al-Ḥarīrī in the 11th century.2