A Cognitive Analysis of Orthographic Deviance of the Letter Tāʼ in the Qur’an: Applying the Theory of Conceptual Metaphor

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Corresponding Author, Associate Professor of Arabic Language and Literature, Faculty of Qur’anic Sciences, Mashhad Branch, University of Qur’anic Sciences and Teachings, Qom, Iran

2 M.A. Graduate in Qur’anic Sciences, Faculty of Qur’anic Sciences, Mashhad Branch, University of Qur’anic Sciences and Teachings, Qom, Iran

Abstract

Objective: In the Qurʾānic orthography (Rasm al-Muṣḥaf), certain similar words appear with orthographic variation that diverges from classical Arabic writing conventions. A notable example is the dual representation of the letter Tāʾ in two forms: closed (ـة) and open (ـت). This study aims to analyze this phenomenon as an orthographic anomaly and interpret it through the lens of Conceptual Metaphor Theory.
Method: This research is fundamental in nature and employs a descriptive-analytical approach. Qurʾānic data containing the two orthographic forms of Tāʾ were collected and analyzed within the framework of Conceptual Metaphor Theory in order to uncover bodily and cognitive motivations underlying these orthographic divergences.
Results: The findings reveal that the two spellings of Tāʾ reflect an ontological metaphor based on the source domain of the “container.” The closed form (ـة) corresponds to a “closed container” and conveys meanings such as unfamiliarity, potentiality, exclusivity, and restriction. In contrast, the open form (ـت), as an “open container,” signifies spaciousness, familiarity, actuality, liberation, and continuity.
Conclusions: The study demonstrates that Qurʾānic orthographic variations are not merely accidental or products of scribal traditions but carry significant conceptual and cognitive implications. Accordingly, Rasm al-Muṣḥaf may be interpreted as a reflection of human embodiment and mental structures. This perspective establishes a link between Qurʾānic studies and cognitive linguistics, offering new insights into the interpretation of Qurʾānic orthography.

Keywords

References

 

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History

  • Receive Date: 16 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 14 April 2025
  • Accept Date: 08 May 2025

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