A Pragmatic Analysis of Numbers in the Holy Quran

Authors

  • Asst. Lect. Zahraa Rasheed Khaluhin Al-Mihana Dept. of English, College of Education for Human Sciences, Wasit University
  • Prof. Hashim Aliwy Mohammed Alhusseini Dept. of English, College of Education for Human Sciences, Wasit University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9249-5909

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31185/wjfh.Vol21.Iss2.727

Keywords:

Pragmatics, Numbers, Deictic Expressions, Implicature

Abstract

This research conducts a pragmatic examination of seven specific numbers in the Holy Quran, aiming to reveal their profound theological implications within the Quranic text. While past research has predominantly explored the mathematical dimensions of these numbers, this study shifts focus to their linguistic and symbolic meanings. By employing two pragmatic theories, the study delves into the significance of the numbers: one, three, four, five, six, seven, and eight. Using a qualitative approach, the research gathers, analyzes, and interprets the data, supplemented by a statistical table that highlights and supports the conclusions. The theoretical foundation draws from Levinson’s (1983) classification of Deictic Expressions and Grice’s (1975) theory of Conversational Implicature. The findings reveal that these numbers are intricately linked to divine themes such as justice and oversight, with their symbolic meanings extending beyond mere numerical value to provide ethical and existential insights.

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Author Biography

  • Prof. Hashim Aliwy Mohammed Alhusseini, Dept. of English, College of Education for Human Sciences, Wasit University

    Hashim Al-Husseini is a professor at Wasit University, College of Education for Humanities, and the Deputy Dean for Academic and Postgraduate Affairs of the College of Education for Humanities. I got my Ph.D. in 2016 in the field of pragmatics/ discourse analysis/ Cross-cultural studies from USM/ Penang Malaysia. Currently, I am the Head of the English Department in the College of Education for Humanities at Wasit University, and a lecturer where I am teaching Ph.D., MA, and degree students different linguistic topics such as phonology, pragmatics, discourse analysis, Headway Academic skills in addition to some other linguistic topics.

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Published

2025-05-01

Issue

Section

European languages and literature

How to Cite

Zahraa Rasheed Khaluhin Al-Mihana, A. L. ., & Hashim Aliwy Mohammed Alhusseini, P. D. . (2025). A Pragmatic Analysis of Numbers in the Holy Quran. Wasit Journal for Human Sciences, 21(2), 995-981. https://doi.org/10.31185/wjfh.Vol21.Iss2.727

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