The Significance of Structures in God's Address to the Prophets: A Descriptive and Analytical Study of Selected Examples

Abstract

This research aims to study one aspect of the Qur’anic discourse, namely God’s address — exalted be He — to the elite of His prophets and messengers, peace be upon them, who are known as the Prophets of strong will (أولو العزم من الرسل). They are the bearers of divine laws, endowed with patience and steadfastness, who endured the hardships of calling people to higher ideals and guiding legislation for the welfare of humanity. The study examines the content of this discourse, its types, and its contexts, while highlighting some of the stylistic features of its formulation and modes of delivery. It also analyzes selected examples of its stylistic traits and structural characteristics, which contribute to the semantic diversity of Qur’anic discourse. Furthermore, the research explores the variations introduced into the original Qur’anic structures that shape this discourse, requiring explanation and interpretation, and clarifies the intended meanings and implications arising from them. The ultimate goal is to uncover the subtle secrets and wondrous nuances within the Book of God — exalted be He — and to reveal aspects of its unique composition, miraculous eloquence, and its superiority over all forms of human rhetoric and expression. In addition, the study emphasizes the deep-rooted presence of this divine mode of address in the Qur’anic text and the diversity of its forms and manifestations, which together represent a rich array of expressive patterns that portray the discourse and elucidate its purpose.