Rhetorical devices and their role in highlighting meaning and rhythm in the Holy Quran

Abstract

This research examines these three embellishments in light of the Qur'anic text, defining them and clarifying their function in constructing meaning and establishing rhythm. Alliteration, which is varied between complete and imperfect, creates a vocal harmony that captures attention and brings meaning closer to the mind through verbal contrast.

Antithesis is used to highlight semantic paradox and contrast between opposites, deepening the meaning and affirming the authenticity of the discourse. Al-Hakim's style, however, is distinguished by its ability to shift the course of the dialogue, directing the recipient toward what is most important and effective, combining brevity with persuasion.

This research also demonstrates the functional role of rhetorical devices, far from the formal view that is limited to verbal embellishment, as these devices are vital elements in achieving rhetorical impact and highlighting the harmony of the Qur’anic text on both the phonetic and semantic levels. This research has adopted the descriptive and analytical approach based on extrapolating Qur’anic evidence that includes the studied rhetorical devices, and then analyzing them rhetorically, phonetically and semantically, in order to confirm that their presence is not merely a verbal embellishment, but rather one of the tools for establishing meaning and creating a harmonious rhythm that brings the text closer to the listener’s conscience. Thus, the Qur’anic miracle is achieved in its combination of the beauty of form and the depth of meaning and content, so that its effect remains renewed in the soul and language together.