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Surah Nomenclature, Reasons and Semantic Relevance: Surah At-Tawbah as a Case Study
Manahil Younas, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Farooq Haider
Abstract:
The Nomenclature of Quranic Chapters constitutes a pivotal discourse within ʿUlūm al-Qurʾān (Quranic Sciences), primarily examining whether these titles are tawqīfī (divinely ordained) or ijtihādī. This field of inquiry critically investigates the underlying wisdom behind the multiplicity of names assigned to a single sūrah, exploring the semantic correlations (al-munāsabāt al-maʿnawiyyah) and profound contextual insights that justify their designation. Employing an analytical approach, this study utilizes Sūrah al-Tawbah as a primary case study to examine its diverse historical titles, evaluate the rationale behind its nomenclature (wujūh al-tasmiyah), and elucidate the conceptual interconnections among its various names. Furthermore, this study highlights the exegetical and thematic significance of Sūrah al-Tawbah’s nomenclature by demonstrating how each of its titles reflects a distinct aspect of the sūrah’s message, historical context, and legislative objectives. Through a critical examination of classical tafsīr literature and works on ʿUlūm al-Qurʾān, the research seeks to establish that the multiplicity of names associated with Sūrah al-Tawbah serves not merely as an identifying feature but as an interpretive framework that enhances understanding of its content and purpose. The study also contributes to the broader discourse on Qurʾānic coherence by illustrating how sūrah names function as indicators of thematic unity and semantic depth, thereby enriching the reader’s engagement with the Qurʾānic text.
Keywords:
Ulum al-Quran, Surah Nomenclature, Tawqifi, Ijtihadi, Al-Tawbah, Semantic Correlations, Synonyms
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