Stylistics Studies of the Holy Quran

Stylistics Studies of the Holy Quran

The paradoxical coexistence of "divine power and authority" with "forbearance and forgiveness" as a model of the unique style of the Quran in verse 41 of Surah Fatir

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate Professor, Department of Quran and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran
2 Corresponding author, Postdoctoral Researcher, Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
This research analyzes a unique stylistic phenomenon in Verse 41 of Surah Fatir:the juxtaposition of cosmic power and Divine clemency(or forgiveness),presenting it as a distinct stylistic pattern indicating the Quran’s inimitability(i’jāz bayānī or miraculous eloquence).The central problem is to understand the meaningful and artful connection between the two seemingly contradictory concepts: divine Imsāk (holding the cosmos together) and the divine attributes of being Al-Ḥalīm (the Forbearing/Clement) and Al-Ghafūr (the Forgiving).
The research methodology relies on structural stylistic analysis and comparative discourse analysis across a vast body of exegetical sources.Findings indicate that this specific juxtaposition creates a subtle semantic shock. The reader's mind, expecting to encounter attributes related to power and dominance—such as Al-'Azīz (the Almighty), Al-Jabbār (the Compeller), or Al-Muntaqim(the Avenger)—is suddenly confronted with attributes of mercy.
The concept of power in this verse is represented across four paradigms: narrative, theological (kalāmī), esoteric (bāṭinī), and scientific. Furthermore, Clemency (Ḥilm) functions as a mechanism that prevents the universe from collapsing in response to human sin.The innovation of this study lies in identifying the mechanism of paradoxical juxtaposition, which, by generating a creative tension, transforms absolute power into morality-driven power.
This article argues that this specific pattern of expression is composed of three distinct components: transcendent abstraction, paradoxical comprehensiveness, and the priority of ethics over power.Together, these form an unparalleled stylistic model. Because this pattern fundamentally differs from human perceptions of power, it can serve as a systematic argument for the supra-human nature and miraculous eloquence of the Holy Quran.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 17 December 2025

  • Receive Date 13 August 2025
  • Revise Date 11 December 2025
  • Accept Date 17 December 2025
  • Publish Date 17 December 2025