A semantic Analysis of the Word “Zellat” (Indignity) in Nahjulbalaghah with a Syntagmatic and Paradigmatic Approach

The word Zellat (indignity) is one of the most common words in different derivative frameworks in Nahjulbalaghah. Using the high divine knowledge and to promote the position of human being and human values, Imam Ali (pbuh) has used different forms of this word in speech and writing to create an impressive image in the mind of the audience and guide them toward dignity and munificence. From the perspective of semantics, examining the primary meaning of this word and its evolution from the pre-Islamic period to the time when Nahjulbalaghah was written is essential to extract the words more frequently used along with this word based on the syntagmatic relationships. On the other hand, based on the syntagmatic (association) relationships, the words and even sentences that are associated with and reinforce the concept of Zellat could be identified. The results of the present study shows that words such as ezzat (dignity), Nafs, Tama’, Moastakinah, Aar, Frar, etc. have the highest syntagmatic with zellat and words such as Qama’ah, Dena’ah and Khasf and even some sentences bring the meaning of zellat into our mind based on paradigmatic relationships. However, phonetic association of some words like Athalla and Azalla are noticeable in bringing the meaning of zellat in the mind of the audience.