قرآنِ مجید میں اسلوبِ ابدال و التفات: بدیع القرآن اور کلاسیکی مصادر کی روشنی میں ایک تحقیقی مطالعہ

Stylistic Substitution and Iltifāt in the Holy Qur’an: A Research Study in the Light of Badī‘ al-Qur’ān and Classical Sources

Abstract

The Holy Qur’an represents the pinnacle of Arabic eloquence and rhetorical excellence. Among its most remarkable stylistic features are Ibdāl (substitution) and Iltifāt (rhetorical shift), which play a vital role in enhancing meaning, emotional impact, and persuasive force. This research study explores these two prominent rhetorical devices within the framework of Badī‘ al-Qur’ān, drawing upon classical sources of Qur’anic sciences and Arabic rhetoric such as Al-Burhān fī ‘Ulūm al-Qur’ān, Al-Itqān, and Al-Fawz al-Kabīr fī Uṣūl al-Tafsīr. The study examines various forms of Ibdāl, including substitution of verbs, nouns, sentences, definiteness and indefiniteness, gender, number, and syntactic structures, highlighting their semantic and stylistic significance. It further analyzes Iltifāt as a deliberate rhetorical transition between grammatical persons, tenses, or modes of address, demonstrating how this device captures attention, reinforces meaning, and deepens spiritual reflection. By analyzing selected Qur’anic examples, the research clarifies that these stylistic shifts are neither arbitrary nor accidental but are deliberate rhetorical strategies that contribute to the Qur’an’s inimitability (i‘jāz). The findings affirm that Ibdāl and Iltifāt are essential elements of Qur’anic discourse, reflecting divine wisdom and linguistic mastery. This study aims to contribute to contemporary Qur’anic studies by reaffirming the relevance of classical rhetorical analysis in understanding the depth, beauty, and guidance of the Qur’anic text.