Conceptual Metaphors of ‘Faith’ in the Quran

Younes Rezazadeh; Marzieh Mohases

doi:10.58404/juq.v6i2.944

Authors

Younes Rezazadeh Faculty of Theology and Religions, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
Marzieh Mohases Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58404/juq.v6i2.944

Keywords:

Faith, Effects of Faith, Conceptual Metaphor, Quranic Interpretation

Abstract

Based upon recent findings in cognitive science, the human mind represents abstract concepts through concrete concepts derived from everyday sensory experiences. From a cognitive linguistic perspective, metaphor is a mental-linguistic process. The Quran also provides ample evidence of this form of conceptualization. These metaphors are formed within a broad context of cultural patterns and are influenced by the common experiences of the time when the Quran was revealed. The frequent occurrence of the word "faith" in the Quran highlights the central role of faith in human spiritual life. This study examines verses germane to the effects of faith with the aim of analyzing how faith is conceptualized in the Quran. The analysis reveals that concepts such as "Faith is a white face," "Faith is the guidance of the heart," "Faith is salvation from fire," "Faith is a profitable trade," "Faith is a light ahead and to the right of believers leading to paradise," "Faith is guidance to the straight path," and "Faith is the exit from darkness into light" are utilized for the metaphorical conceptualization of the effects of faith. Additionally, space and container schemas are used to depict how divine mercy is obtained through faith.

Author Biography

Marzieh Mohases, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

Assistant Professor, Faculty of Theology and Religions, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

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