An Approach to the Semantics of “Burhān” in the Quran by Emphasizing the Syntagmatic and Paradigmatic Relationships

Conceptual relationships and links in linguistics are the tools and methods by which the hidden meaning of the text is better understood. Given that some Qur’anic words have found semantic notions over time, or have become obscured by theological and non-theological perspectives, the semantic approach and the attention to the conceptual relations have been effective in the exact definition of the concepts under study and by providing systematic solutions to explore new layers of meaning and provides the ground for recognizing the meaning of vocabulary without theological or non-theological presuppositions. The word “Burhān” is one of the most important Quranic concepts that have been variously defined in dictionaries and interpretations and the issues raised in the Quranic reading of this term make it necessary to research and study it. Therefore, the present study aims to find out the meaning and concept of “Burhān” in the Quran by a descriptive-analytical method and concludes that there is no consensus on the word’s being Arabic, and in the semantic apparatus of the Quran, “Burhān” has central and relative meanings. Also, by examining the alternatives of this word, including “Āyah,” (sign) “Bayyinah,” (manifest proof), and “Sulṭān” (authority), the main purpose of using the term “Burhān” and distinguishing it from other similar terms has been clarified. Ultimately, by considering the co-occurrences of this word in the Quran, it has been determined that the category of miracles referred to as “Burhān” are those that are clear and perceptible, serving as evidence that goes beyond convincing opponents and establishing certainty in hearts. Furthermore, upon examining the discourse space in the verses under scrutiny, it has become evident that the verb structure within the speech in verses where “Burhān” is used in its primary meaning indicates a kind of inadequacy and weakness in presenting evidence by the speakers. The addressees in these verses are those who claim partnership with God or assert exclusive rights to paradise. On the other hand, the verb structure in the speech in verses where “Burhān” is used in a relative sense indicates the introduction of evidence by God to the addressees of the verses.