ابعاد التغني بالنخيل في الشعر الشعبي السوفي

Abstract

The present study aimed to reveal the dimensions of celebrating the palm tree in Soufi popular poetry, through the study of selected examples from poets of Oued Souf and the analysis of the image through which the palm tree appears in this poetry. The palm tree is not merely a fruit-bearing tree in the desert environment; rather, it is a deep symbol connected to the life of the Soufi individual, daily livelihood, collective memory, and local identity. In Oued Souf, the palm tree represents a source of food and livelihood, and a sign of patience, stability, and generosity. It is also closely linked to social customs, cultural heritage, and popular sentiment. In this study, we adopted the descriptive approach supported by analysis, as it is the most appropriate method for describing the presence of the palm tree in Soufi popular poetry and analyzing its various meanings. We also relied on the cultural approach to understand the relationship between the palm tree, the environment, society, and popular memory. The study dealt with the social and cultural dimensions of the palm tree, particularly its connection with livelihood, saving, solidarity, and identity. It also examined its religious, economic, revolutionary, and aesthetic dimensions through the analysis of poetic examples that highlighted its place in the Soufi popular imagination. The study concluded that celebrating the palm tree in Soufi popular poetry is not limited to describing the beauty of the tree or its fruits, but rather reflects an existential relationship between the Soufi individual, the land, and the oasis. The palm tree appears in the poetic texts as a source of life, dignity, and work, and as a symbol of steadfastness, resistance, and generosity. The study also showed that Soufi popular poetry contributed to preserving the image of the palm tree within collective memory, making it a cultural sign that reflects the specificity of Soufi society and its heritage. Therefore, studying the palm tree in this poetry reveals the interaction between popular literature and the environment, as well as the ability of poetry to document the social, cultural, economic, and aesthetic values of the local community.