Verses of Reckoning in the Holy Qur’an: A Linguistic and Textual Study

Abstract

This study examines the Qur’anic verses related to reckoning (al-ḥisāb) from a linguistic and textual perspective. It aims to explore the semantic functions of the root ḥ-s-b and its derivatives, and to demonstrate the role of morphological, syntactic, stylistic, and contextual structures in shaping the concept of reckoning in Qur’anic discourse. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical method, drawing on Arabic lexicons, works of Qur’anic exegesis, grammar, rhetoric, Qur’anic sciences, as well as semantic and pragmatic studies.

The study is organized into four chapters. The first chapter investigates the lexical and semantic dimensions of the root ḥ-s-b, the distinctions between it and semantically related terms such as counting (al-ʿadd) and enumeration (al-iḥṣāʾ), and a number of semantic oppositions associated with reckoning. The second chapter analyzes the morphological patterns and syntactic structures found in the verses of reckoning. The third chapter examines figurative representation, stylistic shifts (iltifāt), Qur’anic verse endings (fawāṣil), rhetorical constructions, and the pragmatic dimension of discourse between encouragement and warning. The fourth chapter focuses on the pragmatic purposes of the discourse of reckoning and the role of context in determining its meaning.

The study concludes that the meaning of reckoning cannot be determined solely on the basis of lexical meaning, since textual and situational clues play a decisive role in directing interpretation. In contexts of resurrection, return, and recompense, al-ḥisāb denotes holding human beings accountable for their deeds and the consequences resulting from them. By contrast, the expression bi-ghayri ḥisāb (“without measure” or “without reckoning”), when associated with provision or reward, conveys the meaning of abundance and the absence of limited quantification. The study also shows that variations in morphological forms, syntactic structures, and rhetorical styles contribute to highlighting meanings of precision, comprehensiveness, justice, and the different forms of reckoning. Furthermore, Qur’anic discourse employs the concept of reckoning to perform functions that go beyond mere information, including warning, threat, glad tidings, reassurance, and behavioral guidance. The study ultimately concludes that a proper understanding of the verses of reckoning requires an integrated analysis of their lexical, morphological, syntactic, stylistic, contextual, and pragmatic dimensions, as all of these levels interact in shaping the final meaning of the text.