A PhD dissertation entitled “Central and Marginal Meaning in the Views of Qur’anic Interpreters: A Comparative Approach” was debated in the Department of Arabic Language at the College of Education for the Humanities, University of Kerbala. Qasim Ubaid Hamza Al-Tamimi conducted the study and was supervised by Asst. Prof. Khalid Abbas Hussein (PhD)
The study aims to apply theoretical frameworks of central (lexical) and marginal (contextual or extended) meanings to selected Qur’anic terms as interpreted by prominent exegetes. It seeks to uncover similarities and differences among interpreters in how they defined or expanded meanings, based on their cultural, theological, and doctrinal backgrounds. Additionally, the research examines the influence of classical lexicographers on exegetical interpretations of both central and marginal senses.
The dissertation is structured into three main chapters: Chapter One focuses on Qur’anic terms related to Allah (SWT), Chapter Two explores terms associated with the Prophets (peace be upon them), and Chapter Three analyses terms connected to non-prophetic figures and themes.
Furthermore, the study reached several conclusions, among which are: (i) Classical Arabic lexicons did not restrict themselves to lexical (central) meanings but often referenced marginal meanings derived from Qur’anic usage and exegetical traditions, (ii) Some interpreters limited their readings to central meanings, while others extended their analysis to marginal implications, (iii) There was notable variation between exegetes and between lexicographers and exegetes in how marginal meanings were understood and applied, and (iv) The study highlighted the dynamic nature of Qur’anic semantics, shaped by both linguistic tradition and interpretive context.
Note:
The examination committee recommended changing the dissertation title to:
“Central and Marginal Meaning According to Qur’anic Interpreters.”
Dissertation Committee Members:
• Prof. Hassan Abdul Ghani Al-Asadi (PhD) Chairman
• Prof. Hadi Shandoukh Hamid Al-Sa’eedi (PhD) Member
• Prof. Falah Rasoul Hussein (PhD) Member
• Prof. Qasim Raheem Hassan (PhD) Member
• Asst. Prof. Aliya Nusrat Hassan (PhD) Member
• Asst. Prof. Khalid Abbas Hussein (PhD) Supervisor and Member
