The Morphological Semantics of the Word "Shifa" in the Holy Quran: An Analytical Study of Structure and Meaning

Abstract

The Morphological Semantics of the Word "Shifā’" in the Holy Qur’an: An Analytical Study

This study explores the morphological semantics of the word "shifā’" (healing) in the Holy Qur’an through a detailed analysis of its forms and derivatives as they appear in various scriptural contexts. The objective is to uncover the semantic layers and rhetorical subtleties encoded within the morphological structures of the word, highlighting how the Qur’anic language employs morphology to enrich meaning. The research adopts an analytical approach that integrates linguistic theory with exegetical insight.

Findings reveal that the morphological structure of the word contributes significantly to its semantic content. While the verb shafā conveys the action of removing harm or illness, the noun shifā’ introduces a heightened sense of abstraction and universality. The Qur’anic use of the term in multiple morphological forms—verb, verbal noun, and noun—demonstrates deliberate rhetorical precision, aligning each form with specific spiritual, psychological, or theological purposes.

The study analyzes six Qur’anic verses in which the word shifā’ or its derivatives appear, focusing on the contextual function, grammatical pattern, and semantic effect of each form. It concludes that morphological variation serves not only a grammatical function but also a profound exegetical role, contributing to a deeper understanding of divine guidance.

This research underscores the essential role of morphology in Qur’anic semantics and calls for its broader application in linguistic and interpretive studies. It also encourages further applied research on other semantically rich Qur’anic terms to uncover similar layers of meaning.