Ministry of Culture Revives Legacy of Pre-Islamic Poet Al-Asha in Riyadh

📷SPA

Riyadh, August 11, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The Ministry of Culture has organized a series of cultural events in Riyadh’s historic Manfuha neighborhood to honor Maymun bin Qais, known as Al-Asha Al-Kabir, one of the most influential poets of the pre-Islamic era.

Born around 570 AD in Manfuha, south of present-day Riyadh, Al-Asha grew up in a vibrant cultural setting and traveled extensively in search of literary recognition. Despite weak eyesight — a trait that earned him the nickname Al-Asha — his poetic vision was celebrated for its clarity, lyrical beauty, and vivid realism. His works blended wisdom, descriptive imagery, and heartfelt emotion, earning him the title “the cymbal of the Arabs” for the sweetness of his voice in recitation.

The events featured poetry readings and literary seminars, aiming to highlight Al-Asha’s enduring contributions to Arabic literature and to revive his influence in the cultural consciousness. The initiative is part of the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to spotlight cultural icons and advance the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Al-Asha’s legacy continues to inspire generations, with his eloquence and insight standing as a testament to the richness of Arab heritage.