Dr. Salama Dawood Highlights the Rhetorical Miracle in the Story of Noah in the Quran
Dr. Salama Dawood discusses the rhetorical miracles in the Quran through the story of Prophet Noah, while Dr. Mohamed Faisal emphasizes the rational basis of belief in resurrection.
Dr. Salama Dawood, President of Al-Azhar University, highlighted a dimension of the rhetorical miracle in the Holy Quran through his interpretation of the story of Prophet Noah (peace be upon him), emphasizing the profound linguistic structure and precision of word choice.
He reflected on the expressions: “O earth, swallow your water, and O sky, withhold”, describing them as a majestic cosmic scene that reflects divine power.
Rhetorical Structure in the Story of Noah
Dr. Dawood explained that the verses of Noah’s story reveal extraordinary precision in Quranic expression, especially in the depiction of the flood and its end.
He noted that the placement of events between two divine addresses to Prophet Noah highlights deep emotional and narrative significance.
The Secret of Addressing and Indefiniteness
He explained that the use of the vocative particle “O” in addressing “earth” and “sky” conveys grandeur and majesty.
The use of indefinite forms for “earth” and “sky” reflects a dramatic transformation in the cosmic order after the flood.
The Universe Responding to Divine Command
He clarified that the command to the earth and sky represents a real response to divine will, where the earth absorbed its water and the sky ceased its rain, manifesting absolute divine power.
The Quran as a Living Book of Reflection
He stressed that the Quran remains an ever-open book of contemplation, offering endless linguistic and intellectual insights across generations.
Belief in Resurrection: Rational and Scriptural
In a related context, Dr. Mohamed Faisal of Al-Azhar University stated that belief in resurrection is a rational issue before being a matter of faith, arguing that the One who created from nothing is surely capable of recreating.
He cited the verse: “And it is He who begins creation and then repeats it”, emphasizing that resurrection is for accountability before God.
Linguistic Precision in Understanding the Quran
He highlighted the importance of understanding Arabic linguistic rules, especially how meanings shift with prepositions, to avoid misinterpretation of Quranic verses.
He stressed that divine attributes must be understood in a manner befitting God’s majesty, without anthropomorphic interpretation.
What is meant by the rhetorical miracle in the story of Noah?
It refers to the precise linguistic structure and word choice in the Quran that reflects divine eloquence.
Why are “earth” and “sky” mentioned in indefinite form in the verse?
To indicate a massive cosmic transformation after the flood.
What does the command “O earth, swallow your water, and O sky, withhold” mean?
It is a divine command showing absolute control of Allah over the universe.
Is belief in resurrection a rational concept?
Yes, it is logically based on the idea that the One who created can recreate.
Why is understanding Arabic important in interpreting the Quran?
Because accurate interpretation depends on linguistic rules and contextual meanings.
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