Stylistics of Maryam and Zacharias speeches in Quran

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor, Arabic Department, Women Branch of Imam Sadiq niversity ,Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Stylistics is one of the literary criticism methods for studying literary and linguistic phenomena to evaluate the aesthetic, semantic and psychological aspects of the text. This article has selected two Quranic dialogues by Zakaria and Maryam to characterize their stylistic aspects at the level of sound, music, words, phrases and meaning. The difference between superficial meanings of phrases and their deep, hidden meanings are determined, to check if the gender difference had linguistic and semantic influences on the speeches.
The results indicate that, at the phonetic level, the two conversations use loud vowels repeatedly to create a kind of subtle phonetic connection. On syntactic and synthetic levels, in Maryam's conversation, the words are selected in a way to amplify peace of mind and reassurance, while avoiding false slander and impairing her modesty. She uses apologetic phrases accompanied by a kind of shame to absolve herself of the accusation. Regarding Zakaria's conversation, it can be said that words and phrases appropriate to his weakness and old age and complaining about not having a child are used in the form of prayer. In general, the sound of words and words and phrases used in these two conversations provide an accurate picture of the personality, moral and emotional characteristics of the two characters
Key Words: Stylistics, structure, semantics, Zakaria, Maryam
 
Stylistics, as a discipline, delves into the analysis and interpretation of various textual works, drawing from the rich domains of linguistics and literature. With a critical lens, it seeks to unravel the intricate phenomena woven into these texts, exploring the complex interplay between form and meaning. By meticulously scrutinizing the methods of formulation and expression employed by authors, stylistics aims to unveil the underlying semantic, aesthetic, and psychological dimensions that shape the text's impact on the reader.
At its core, stylistics recognizes the power of language and literary devices in conveying a writer's intended message and evoking a desired response. It goes beyond mere comprehension of the content and structure of a text and delves into the artful utilization of linguistic and literary elements. By closely examining the choices made in terms of word selection, sentence structure, figurative language, and rhetorical devices, stylistics sheds light on the deliberate craftsmanship employed by writers to create engaging and impactful works of literature.
One of the defining characteristics of stylistics is its ability to uncover the prominent influences that shape a writer's creative process. It investigates the cultural, historical, and social factors that influence the choices made by authors, offering insights into the broader context in which the text was produced. Whether it be the influence of a specific literary movement, the impact of social norms and values, or the author's personal experiences, stylistics unveils the layers of inspiration that contribute to the formation of literary masterpieces.
The present study embarks on a captivating exploration of two profound Quranic discourses attributed to the esteemed figures of Zakariya the Prophet and Mrs. Maryam (peace be upon them). These remarkable discourses are found within the noble verses of Surat Al-Imran and Surat Maryam, immersing readers in accounts of miraculous births. Adopting a descriptive-analytical approach, our research aims to establish clear and concise definitions of the terminologies central to our study. With this foundation, we delve into a comprehensive analysis of these discourses, meticulously examining their phonetic, syntactic, and semantic dimensions. Our ultimate goal is to unravel the congruence and divergence between the discourses in terms of subject matter and style. Additionally, we aim to identify the linguistic and artistic factors that contribute to these discernible distinctions. Through this meticulous analysis, we seek to unearth the stylistic choices, structural patterns, and vocabulary employed by the authors to convey their attitudes, ideas, and reactions toward the awe-inspiring phenomenon of miraculous childbirth.
In delving deeper into the fabric of these discourses, our focus naturally turns toward the phonetic aspects that underpin their rhetorical power. We navigate the emotional and evocative role played by the nuanced timbre of the sounds employed, recognizing their profound impact on the overall tone and delivery. Furthermore, our study extends to encompass the lexical, syntactic, and semantic levels. By doing so, we aim to reveal the underlying disparities between the superficial and deep structures of the discourses. This extensive exploration brings to light the artistic characteristics of each speech, unveiling the hidden layers of meaning that lie dormant within their profound narratives. Moreover, our investigation emphasizes the influence of factors such as the differing locations and genders of the authors. By shedding light on these elements, we gain insights into how they contribute to the discernible distinctions and potential superiority of one discourse over the other in terms of linguistic structure, syntax, and semantics.
One remarkable outcome arising from our meticulous research at the phonetic level is the recurrence of a motif reminiscent of the ebb and flow of a tide. This deliberate deployment of phonetic elements engenders a sense of harmonious coherence, bestowing a gentle rhythm that amplifies the inherent tenderness conveyed within the delivery of the discourses. This particular choice proves exquisitely fitting, considering the supplicatory nature characterizing each discourse. In her vulnerable state, Maryam unequivocally disavows the birth of a child, expressing profound terror and even daring to wish for death. To confront and repel the slander unjustly leveled against her by her people, she masterfully employs soft phrases, accompanied by a tone suggestive of modesty and grace. In stark contrast, Zakariya's speech adroitly adopts words and structures that perfectly align with his circumstances. He vocalizes his lamentation of physical weakness and graying hair, invoking a sense of heartfelt supplication. Through the deliberate repetition of supplications, Zakariya's deep longing for a son is unequivocally articulated, reflecting the profound depth of his desire.
As we delve into the profound intricacies permeating these sacred texts, we are invited to marvel at the inherent artistry embedded within their narratives. Through the lens of stylistics, we develop a profound appreciation for the literary craftsmanship demonstrated by the author, while gaining a deeper understanding of the multifaceted layers of meaning that enrich their extraordinary narratives.

Keywords

Main Subjects


سبك‌شناسی سخنان مریم و زكریا در قرآن

فاطمه ملایم[1]

سبک شناسی از روش‌های نقد ادبی است که جنبه‌های زیبایی‌شناختی، معنایی و روان‌شناختی متن یا سخن،  چگونگی شکل گیری آنها و تعبیر از معنی را مطالعه می کند. خطاب بر کلامی که به مخاطب القاء می شود و از باب توسع در معنی بر گونه های خاص سخن و گفتمان اطلاق می شود. این پژوهش سبک گفتگوهای مریم و زکریا  با محوریت  ولادت معجزه آسای فرزند را در آیاتی از سوره مبارکه مریم وآل عمران از جنبه های آوائی، واژگانی، نحوی و بلاغی ومعنایی با روش توصیفی- تحلیلی بررسی نمود، تا از طریق بررسی نوع سبک آنها، معانی پنهان ولایه های عمیق معنایی را استخراج کند و تاثیرتفاوت موقعیت وجنسیت  حضرت زکریا و مریم  در تفاوت یا برتری سبک این گفتارها وانتقال معنا را مشخص نماید. نتیجه نشان می دهد که هر دو در سطح آوایی از مصوت‌های بلند حاوی نظم آهنگ لطیف و رقیق که رقت کلام را افزایش می دهد استفاده می کنند که باعبارت های دعایی حضرت زکریا «ع» برای  در خواست فرزند از خداوند و حالت شکوه و اظهار ضعف وپیری او، وبا حالت مریم و  نگرانی او  از آن تهمت ناروا و تلاش برای دور کردن آن از خود مناسبت دارد. نوع ساختار ترکیب‌ها و عبارت‌ها و واژگان و آواهای بر آمده از آنها متناسب با شرایط و بافت موقعیتی و تعهد اخلاقی و دینی آنها نسبت به جامعه است و ویژگی‌های شخصیتی و عواطف و انفعالات آنها  را  در مواجهه با آن شرایط و موقعیت خاص به خوبی منعکس می‌کنند.

كلمات كليدی: سبک شناسی، ساختار، معناشناسی، زکریا، مریم.

 

[1] استادیار گروه عربی خواهران دانشگاه امام صادق (ع)، تهران، ایران. f.molaym@isu.ac.ir

تاریخ دریافت:12/06/1402، تاریخ پذیرش: 20/10/1402

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