miṣrāʿ

Arabic poetry rhyme

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July 16, 2026

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In Arabic poetry, a misra' refers to one half of a poetic line. Each complete line is divided into two misra'. The second misra' concludes with a rhyming syllable that is consistently used throughout the entire poem. To help the audience internalize this rhyme, the first line often repeats the rhyme at the end of both its halves. Subsequently, the rhyme appears only at the end of the complete line. This rhyming structure is a fundamental element of Arabic poetry, contributing to its musicality and memorability. The tradition of Arabic poetry is deeply intertwined with Arab identity, history, and aspirations, with poets historically playing significant roles in public life.1234

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Arabic literature
Metre and rhyme
…divided into two half-lines (called miṣrāʿ); the second of the two ends with a rhyming syllable that is used throughout the poem. In order that the listening audience may internalize the rhyme that is to be used, the first line (which is often repeated) uses the rhyme at the end…
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…divided into two half-lines (called miṣrāʿ); the second of the two ends with a rhyming syllable that is used throughout the poem. In order that the listening audience may internalize the rhyme that is to be used, the first line (which is often repeated) uses the rhyme at the end…
Read More