HuRuf Journal : International Journal of Arabic Applied Linguistic
Vol. 6 No. 1 (2026): June 2026

Metaphor, Kinâyah and Majâz in the Holy Qur'an: A Critical Analysis of Ibn Taymiyyah's Rejection of the Non-Literal Meaning

Indra Saputra (Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi)
Busyro (Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi)
Muhamad Rezi (UIN Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi, Indonesia)
Hayati (Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi)
Hurriyatus Sa'adiyah (Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M.Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

This article examines metaphor, majâz, and kinâyah as forms of non-literal meaning in the language of the Qur’an, while critically reviewing Ibn Taymiyyah’s rejection of majâz. The study departs from the fact that Qur’anic language does not always operate in a strictly literal manner, but frequently employs expressions that require contextual, rhetorical, and semantic reading. This research uses a qualitative library-based approach by examining classical works of Arabic rhetoric, writings on Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT), and sources discussing Ibn Taymiyyah’s view on literal and figurative meaning. The study finds that CMT, majâz, and kinâyah all affirm that language may convey meaning through systematic non-literal mechanisms rather than through random deviation. In this context, a total rejection of majâz is difficult to sustain, since Arabic—including Qur’anic language—is rich in semantic extension, indication, and transfer of meaning. An excessively literal approach risks narrowing interpretation, obscuring rhetorical beauty, and in some verses generating theological problems. Therefore, acknowledging non-literal meaning is essential for preserving interpretive accuracy and safeguarding theological integrity.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

huruf

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

HuRuf Journal : International Journal of Arabic Applied Linguistic (e-ISSN : 2798-8821 | p-ISSN : 2798-9402) is a journal which is published by Rumah Jurnal Institut Agama Islam Negeri (IAIN) Bukittinggi, West Sumatera Indonesia. The journal is published twice a year in June and December. HuRuf ...