A Linguistic Analysis of Intra-textual and Extra-textual Contextual Indicators of Quranic Verses in Critiquing Joseph Lumbard’s View on the Abrogation of Previous Religions

Accurately comprehending the divine intent of the Holy Quran has always been a central concern for Islamic scholars. In this context, Joseph Lumbard—a convert to Islam and Quranic researcher—citing specific verses, has argued that Islam does not contradict the validity of previous religions, and that the emergence of Islam does not signify the termination of their validity. The objective of this research is to critique this perspective and demonstrate the abrogation of previous religions by relying on a systematic linguistic analysis, encompassing both intra-textual and extra-textual indicators. The research methodology employs a linguistic analysis of the verses cited by Lumbard, utilizing lexicography, syntactic and structural analysis, examination of intra-textual context, study of revelation occasions (Asbab al-Nuzul), intertextual references, and other extra-textual indicators. In this regard, through a precise examination of the lexical implications of phrases such as “confirming that which came before it” (musaddiqan lima bayna yadayhi) and “guardian over it” (muhayminan ‘alayhi), alongside the analysis of syntactic structures and the historical background of the revelations, it becomes evident that while the Holy Quran affirms the general principles of previous heavenly religions, it summons their followers to accept the new Sharia. The findings of this study not only challenge Lumbard’s viewpoint but also emphasize the necessity of a profound and comprehensive understanding of the Quran’s linguistic implications within the interpretive process.

کلیدواژه ها:

linguistic analysis ، Joseph Lumbard ، Intra-textual Indicators ، Extra-textual Indicators ، Abrogation of Religions