The Structural Analysis of Oaths in the Holy Koran

(A Study in Twenty Sections of the Holy Koran [out of Thirty Sections])

S. M. Mirhosyni[1]

N. Ansari[2]

L. Ghalandari[3]

Abstract

In terms of form, oath is an interjection which is intended to emphasize a meaning to the audience. The manner in which this verbal device is used is closely associated with the degree of doubt, or else the faith of a listener. Knowing the mindset of his audience, an eloquent speaker uses his words in the best possible way in order to convey his message to them as impressively as possible. The structural differences of oaths in the Holy Koran, which show a lofty degree of eloquence, are completely in line with the intentions of the Speaker. The present study tries to analyze the relationships between different forms of oaths and the meanings  created in the mindset of audience The present study covers twenty (out of thirty) sections of the Holy Koran. All forms of oaths are classified and analyzed on the basis of their components in a descriptive- analytical manner by means of statistical diagrams. The structural study of oaths shows that among the four components of an oath, the omission of verbs is the most- widely used form and that the mentioning of the oath- response is more frequent than other components. Clearly, the omission or else the mentioning of components is based on the intentions of the Speaker and/ or the mindset of the audience. The mentioning of oath- response helps the listener and/or the reader to understand the oath in a Makki or Madani sura. The intention mostly revolves around such themes as the certainty of resurrection, the truthfulness of the Messenger, the revolt of man and the consequence, etc.