A Comparative Approach to the Semantics of the Concept of "Expansion" (Bast) in the Holy Qur’ān with Emphasis on Conceptual Interrelations

Document Type : Scholary

Authors

1 Department of Interpretation and Sciences of the Quran, Faculty of Interpretation, University of Qurʼanic Studies and Sciences, Qom, Iran

2 Department of Jurisprudence, Khatam al-Anbia school, Qom Seminary, Qom, Iran

3 Department of Quran and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Interpretation, University of Qurʼanic Studies and Sciences, Qom, Iran

Abstract

This research deals with the comparative semantic analysis of six keywords regarding the concepts of "expansion," "sah," "sharh," "madd," "tarf," and "raghad" in the Holy Qur’ān and examines the subtle distinctions and conceptual links between them. The research method was analytical-comparative and relied on semantic analysis within the framework of conceptual links. The main method was the etymological lexical analysis of the words by referring to reliable lexical sources and the interpretative study of the verses in various interpretations. The findings indicate that while all of these words fall within the semantic circle of "expansion" and "abundance," each of them holds subtle distinctions: "expansion," with the central meaning of "spaciousness" as opposed to "containment," covers a wide range of material and spiritual meanings. "Sah" implies "inner capacity and ability." "Sharh" emphasizes "the process of opening and removing a bottleneck." "Madd" focuses on "linear and longitudinal stretching and extension." "Tarf" refers to "excessive enjoyment and pampering" with a negative connotation, and "raghad" is the "pleasant and blessed abundance" of material life without any negative connotation. Understanding these distinctions is essential for a more accurate understanding of the meanings of the verses and the semantic system of the Qur’ān.

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Main Subjects

References

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Classical and Contemporary Islamic Studies
Volume 8, Issue 1
Winter & Spring 2026
January 2026
Pages 105-113

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