1
Faculty of Theology, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
2
Shiraz, Shiraz University, Faculty of Theology, Department of Quran and Hadith Science
10.22034/jqopv.2025.16433.1340
Abstract
The issue of the Qur’an’s structure and coherence has long been a topic of discussion among Qur’anic scholars and critics, with Islamic scholars proposing various approaches to elucidate it. Among the researchers who have advanced theories on this subject is Michel Cuypers, a Belgian scholar who seeks to demonstrate the Qur’an’s structural unity and interconnectedness by applying the principles of Semitic rhetoric.
This study employs analytical methods based on Cuypers’ approach to investigate the highly symmetrical structure of “the bride of the Qur’an,” Sūrat al-Raḥmān. The aim is to explore the distinctive organization of this sūrah through Cuypers’ method and to demonstrate the coherence between its verses and overall composition by mapping its elements to features of Semitic rhetoric, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach.
Following Cuypers’ model, the analysis first divides Sūrat al-Raḥmān into ten interconnected sections and then examines the relationships among them. The arrangement of the sūrah’s verses, according to Semitic rhetorical theory, forms a six-part parallel structure: initially presenting three thematic units, followed by three additional units that correspond through contrast, causality, and further contrast to the first three. Uncovering these links between seemingly distant segments not only reveals the sūrah’s unique organization but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the divine intent and the emergence of its layered meanings.
roostaie, Z. , imandar, H. and ajilian mafogh, M. (2025). Examination of the Structuring of Surah Ar-Rahman Using Michel Cuypers' Method. The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View, 20(38), 313-350. doi: 10.22034/jqopv.2025.16433.1340
MLA
roostaie, Z. , , imandar, H. , and ajilian mafogh, M. . "Examination of the Structuring of Surah Ar-Rahman Using Michel Cuypers' Method", The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View, 20, 38, 2025, 313-350. doi: 10.22034/jqopv.2025.16433.1340
HARVARD
roostaie, Z., imandar, H., ajilian mafogh, M. (2025). 'Examination of the Structuring of Surah Ar-Rahman Using Michel Cuypers' Method', The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View, 20(38), pp. 313-350. doi: 10.22034/jqopv.2025.16433.1340
CHICAGO
Z. roostaie , H. imandar and M. ajilian mafogh, "Examination of the Structuring of Surah Ar-Rahman Using Michel Cuypers' Method," The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View, 20 38 (2025): 313-350, doi: 10.22034/jqopv.2025.16433.1340
VANCOUVER
roostaie, Z., imandar, H., ajilian mafogh, M. Examination of the Structuring of Surah Ar-Rahman Using Michel Cuypers' Method. The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View, 2025; 20(38): 313-350. doi: 10.22034/jqopv.2025.16433.1340
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