Verbal Semantics in Islamic Jurisprudence: ʿAbd Al-Raḥmān Nāṣir Al-Siʿdī’s Contributions to The Study of Dalālāt Al-Alfāẓ

Abstract

This paper explores the contributions of ʿAbd al-Raḥmān Nāṣir al-Siʿdī to the understanding of Dalālāt al-Alfāẓ (Verbal Semantics) within the framework of the principles of Islamic jurisprudence. As a distinguished scholar in Uṣūl al-Fiqh, al-Siʿdī's work sheds light on the nuanced relationship between linguistic expressions and their implications in deriving legal rulings. By analysing al-Siʿdī’s scholarly output, the paper highlights how his insights into the semantics of Arabic lexicon contribute to a deeper comprehension of Islamic law and its application. Al-Siʿdī's meticulous attention to the context, grammatical structure, and etymology of words demonstrates his profound commitment to uncovering the intended meanings of the Sharī'ah. This research not only underscores al-Siʿdī's legacy in Islamic legal theory but also illustrates the pivotal role of language in the epistemology of Islamic jurisprudence. This paper employs a qualitative research approach, focusing on a thorough textual analysis of al-Siʿdī’s scholarly works, specifically his contributions to the study of Dalālāt Al-Alfāẓ (the implications of words) within Islamic jurisprudence. This paper concludes by stating that al-Siʿdī’s contributions to Uṣūl al-Fiqh not only enrich the Islamic scholarly tradition but also serves as a guide for addressing modern legal and ethical dilemmas through the prism of Islamic law. His legacy offers a foundation for future scholarly exploration, promising to extend the understanding and application of Islamic jurisprudence in diverse contemporary contexts.