Mechanisms of Argumentation in Qur’anic Discourse: A Study of Surat Al-Mulk

Abstract

It is well-known that argumentation divides into three main categories: logical, rhetorical, and linguistic argumentation. The sacred text is considered an argumentative discourse as it refutes false ideological narratives, as seen in the improvisational quality, which represents a high standard of rhetorical excellence in Arabic, thus positioning the Qur'an primarily as an argumentative discourse.

This paper aims to examine theories of argumentation and apply them to selected passages from Surat Al-Mulk. The researcher seeks to shed light on these theories using modern concepts—particularly those of Ducrot—by analyzing specific arguments within the surah. Based on the premise that "the Qur’an is suitable for every time and place," this study utilizes Qur'anic verses to demonstrate that the Qur'an embodies elements that establish it as an argumentative discourse, fulfilling the purposes of persuasion and influence.