Cultural and Social Significance in Lexical Interpretation: A Study of Al-Ayn Book

Abstract

This research aims to trace the cultural and social connotations found in the vocabulary of the Arabic language as presented in Al-Ayn book by Al-Farahidi, using an analytical approach. It seeks to observe the mutual influence between language and culture and the extent to which Arab society's culture is reflected in the lexicographical compilation. It also examines how lexicographers employ their own culture in the process of interpreting lexical units. The term "culture" has been defined in various ways depending on the knowledge fields it has been employed in. Anthropologically, culture refers to the complex entity that encompasses all knowledge, beliefs, customs, and traditions held by a people. The social and cultural connotations received the most attention and prominence in the lexicon due to their direct connection to various aspects of life in society. The lexicon serves as an authentic mirror of the cultural environment of Arab society in both the pre-Islamic and Islamic eras. Among the notable features of cultural and social connotations addressed in this research is the symbolism of the turban as a cultural symbol, as well as the cultural aspects of terms related to friendship, companionship, and moral values in Arab society.