Jamil Ibn Abdullah Ibn Mamar

Year of birth unknown; died circa 701. Arab poet.

Jamil ibn Abdullah ibn Mamar sang the praises of his beloved Busaina. Jamil and Busaina are two of Bedouin Arabia’s celebrated lovers; the touching story of their love was transmitted by word of mouth, embellished with romantic particulars, and, once written down (eighth and ninth centuries), was invariably included in numerous poetry anthologies. Hallmarks of Jamil’s lyrics are delicacy in conveying emotion and moods of visionary asceticism. Many of his verses became popular songs.