The linguistic differences between the terms "Evidence", "Proof, and "Argument" in the Holy Quran

Abstract

The Arabic language is one of the most precise languages in word usage, as each word has its own connotation, such that no other word can fully replace it in meaning, no matter how close in meaning. This has given the Arabic language a wide range of linguistic vocabulary.

Then The Holy Quran, which is the book of Allah revealed to our Master Muhammad (peace be upon him), came with an incredibly precise usage of words, and its method astounded the people of understanding and left those skilled in eloquence speechless.

This research addressed the linguistic differences between three terms: "evidence", "proof, and "argument”. These terms are frequently used interchangeably by many people with the same meaning. I studied them, starting with their linguistic definitions from various dictionaries and linguistic books. First, I summarized the precise meaning of each word. Then, I explored their technical or terminological meanings and connected them to their linguistic definitions.

Furthermore, I studied each term by examining its occurrences in the Quran, providing a simplified explanation of the associated verses. I concluded by summarizing the precise Quranic meaning of each term. In the final section of the research, I solidified the linguistic distinctions between these three terms based on my findings and analysis.

The study produced several key findings, with the most significant among them being that each term in the Holy Quran has its own precise and distinct meaning, which may differ from its counterparts, despite some shared aspects. They are by no means entirely synonymous. For researchers of Quranic meanings and interpretations, it is crucial to elucidate the exact, specific meaning of Quranic terms and not simply rely on the commonalities in meaning between words. In conclusion, this emphasizes the need for a deep and nuanced understanding of the precise meanings inherent in Quranic vocabulary, as each term carries its unique significance.

Keywords: Evidence - Proof - Argument - Linguistic Differences - Amrir - Sidr