Al-Qalam 2009 --- (1) ---

Understanding Research Methodology For

Islamic Studies
Abdul Karim Langha *
The main object of this paper is to demonstrate the
ways and means under which an analysis is made of the speech)
ٌ ‫ ) بيا‬as well as the contents of a Text (ٍ‫ )يت‬for conducting a
research with special reference to Islamic Studies. This
exercise is taken by making a mention of Research Procedure
for the purpose of Data collection: the methods for Data
Analysis are described under four Heads. One is concerning
the Subject-Matter i.e. Topic under the shadow of which a
study is to be made. The second is regarding the Analysis and
scrutiny of a speech. The third is relating to the Analysis of a
Text. The last is common to Speech and Text.
Key Words:
Analytic Induction-Discourse-Domain-Hermeneutics-
Heuristic-Narration-Semiotics-Syntax-Typology-Taxonomy
1. Introduction
Wrong assumptions are to be avoided and evaded in every
field of life and the discipline of Islamic Studies has no exception.
In order to avoid future harm, arising out of wrong assumptions,
one is asked for a scrutiny of a claim brought forward by an
unsound person. It is therefore that the reader is presented, hereby,
with a brief overview regarding the methods to be adopted for
reaching a just conclusion in the matters of research or a sound
study of a narration made by a speaker either by oral speech or
through a text. The word “Data”, frequently used, at the present,
may be taken as an equallent to the word “evidence” which may be
* Ph.D. Scholar, Education University, Lahore.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (2) ---

either oral or written, and; the principles governing the credibility

of a witness and his evidence are the same as that of a work
undertaken by a researcher. To understand the basic Terminology
for doing a research, in a simple and easy way, the references are
made and the illustrations are taken from the Holy Book.
2. Research
The word research is a derivative of search by prefixing
Re- to it. The word Re- came from Latin via old French which
means “a new “just like the word “reshape” from “shape”. It is an
activity that encompasses and increases the sum of human
knowledge. It is a creative work undertaken on a systematic basis
in order to increase the stock of knowledge, including knowledge
of humanity, culture and society, and the use of this stock of
knowledge to devise new applications.
The activity of a research may b categorized as basic research,
strategic research, applied and experimental research.
Pure research is meant for theoretical purposes. A long term
benefits are not intended in it.
Strategic research means the activity done for the discovery of a
solution against the hard situation and practical problem,
prevailing at the time when the work is undertaken by the
researcher.
Applied research is done with a view of its application in a
particular field of life.
To achieve these ends, certain parameters are set down, in each of
the discipline either of pure sciences or social sciences.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (3) ---

3. Methodology for Research

In brief; the word search means finding out a desired goal
or object. One is in search of gold, job and other pleasures of life
while the other is a search of God and His attributes just like
Abraham ( ‫ )عليه السال م‬who made a successful effort and search for
having a true knowledge about the existence of Almighty Allah.
His methodology of research is described as under:-
At the time when the night prevailed upon him, he saw the star. He
said, “It is my Creator.” But when the star disappeared, he said, “I do not love
the disappearing bodies.” And when the brightening moon was seen by him, he
said, “It is my Creator”. And when it disappeared, he said, “Unless my Lord
guides me, of course, I shall be amongst the misrouted people. And when he saw
the brightening sun, he said, “It is my Creator. It is the greatest”. And when it
disappeared, he said, “O my fellow being, I am free from that you associate the
others with Almighty God, in the matters of His Kingdom. Of course; I have put
my face towards Him who has created the skies and the earth, like a man of
upright nature, and; I am not amongst the idolaters. [Qur‟an VI- 76-79]
The 2nd instance on the subject may be taken up as that of
a happening at the festival of Idolaters. The Idolaters based the
worship of idols by advancing a reason to the effect that they have
found their fathers as worshiper of them. [Qur‟an XXI- 53]
The other example on the subject is the instance of a
dialogue between Abraham and Pharaoh about the oneness of
Almighty Allah which is to the following effect:-
Have you not seen the person who, despite the fact that he was bestowed with
the kingdom, disputed Ibrahim in the matter of his Creator? At the time; when
Ibrahim said, “My Creator is that who gives life to non-livings and causes death
as well.”He said, “I grant life and death.” Ibrahim said, “Of course, no doubt,
Allah brings the sun from the East, then you are required to take it from the
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (4) ---

West.” It is thereby that the disbeliever was abashed. And Allah never guides
the cruel and wrong doers.[2-258]
They asked, “Who has done so with their gods, of course, he is
amongst the cruel people”. They replied that they heard a person who is called
as Ibrahim while he was making a mention about them. They said, “Fetch him
before the people so that they may testify as witnesses.” They said, “It is you,
Ibrahim, who has done this with our gods”? He said, “It is the biggest amongst
them who has done so. You are to inquire from them if they can narrate”. They,
then, became remindful of non-speaking status of the idols and said that they
themselves were the wrong-doers. They asked that it was well known that those
are idols who did not speak, at all. At this Ibrahim said that they worship which
cannot profit them at all, nor harm them. There was no answer to the reasoning
advanced by Abraham except they said that Ibrahim be burnt alive and they
should stand by their gods, if they are certainly to do something. [Qur‟an: XXI:
57- 68]
From the above instances, the procedure and method to be
under gone for the purpose of research may be taken up as follows:
The basic requirement for doing a research is Data, and; the
word Data means the material which can be used as evidence
either to prove or to disprove a fact.
The Data is primary when originating from the basic source
and foundation. It is secondary when coming from the source other
than its origin. However; the secondary source, at sometimes,
becomes the original source for the subsequent investigation. It is
only when the authenticity, validity and reliability of the secondary
source become established beyond a reasonable shadow of doubt.
For example; in Islamic discipline, the primary source of Data is
the Holy Qura‟n and the Sunnah. The scholarly work during the 3rd
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generation can be considered as a primary source for a new

researcher. The Data is either oral or in the written form
Research Procedure
The data for the purpose of research is collected from
observations, physiological functions, Interview, Questionnaires
and Historical Records.
i- Observations- ‫انًشاهذا ث‬
Under this method, the observations are made and
collected for the purpose of reaching a just conclusion against
the matter under controversy. The observations, in certain
matters, provide more accurate information. The procedure for
making observations is the same as for other types of
descriptive research.
ii- Physiological functions- ‫انىضا ئف انطبعيت‬
Data is collected as per physiological functions of the
matter under study so that variations are to be controlled. For
example, while studying in the field of Crime, the subject matter
under enquiry is about the criminality of a person and as to
whether he is a born criminal or it is otherwise? The data is to be
collected with respect to physical constitution of the body i.e. Ear ;
Nose; Lips; Arms and Legs etc. to determine as to whether, a
difference in these organs have any effect for becoming a born
criminal.
iii- Interview- ‫انًما بهت‬
The 3rd method for making a collection of data is interview of
the concerned person. A specific set of questions are constructed
for this purpose. These may be introduced and collected through
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field notes or may be taped. The essence behind the interview is to

provide a supplement to the literature review and index data.
iv- Questionnaires- ‫سهت‬
ً ‫ا‬
These are arranged to show an agreement or disagreement with
a statement.
A questionnaire may be as closed – end or opened-end. A closed –
end questionnaire is structured for requiring the addressee to
answer in Yes or No. Whereas, under, opened-end questionnaire,
one is required a reply in some details.
v- Historical Records - ً‫األ رشيف انتاريخ‬
Historical or pre-existing record is also a source for Data
Collection.
4. Method of Data Analysis
Data means evidence, the primary object of which is either
to prove or to disprove a fact or a fact under controversy.
4.1 Analysis of the Subject Matter under Study - ٌ‫تحهيم انًضًى‬

In order to be more specific and limited for the purpose a

research work, a selection is made of the Type and Topic, covering
the field within which the researcher is to travel and to remained
within that sphere. A further subdivision is to be made depending
on the scope of work.
4.1.1. Typology- ً‫انتحهيم انُىع‬
Typological analysis means the study of types which is
made subject matter of the study-work such as Linguistic typology
i.e. classification of languages according to their structural
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features. It is a classification system, taken from patterns, themes,

or from the groups for data purposes. A separate, exclusive and
exhaustive categorization is made for the purpose of analysis.
Under Biblical Typology, Adam (‫ )عليه السال م‬is considered as a type
of Christ ( ‫ )عليه السال م‬in that as the former introduced sin into the
world, even so, through the latter, a system of righteousness was
made available for mankind. This is in the following words:
And just as all the people were made sinner as the result of
the disobedience of one man, in the same way they will all be put
right with God as the result of the obedience of the one man. [Rom.
5:19]
Moses ( ‫ )عليه السال م‬in his noble role of prophet, leader, and
mediator for Jehovah‟s people, is considered as typical of the Lord
Jesus in the following words;
Moses said, The Lord your God will send you a prophet,
just as he sent me, and he will be one of your own people. You are
to obey everything that he tells you to do. [Acts 3:22]
For more elaboration, it may be defined as the systematic
classification of the types of the something according to their
common characteristics such as the types of a personality in the
discipline of Psychology.
4.1.2. Taxonomy - ً‫انترتيب انفرع‬
Taxonomy -from Greek taxis meaning arrangement or
division and nomos meaning law-A sub ordinate categorization is
made for the purpose of analysis.
It is the science of classification according to a pre-determined
system, with the resulting catalog used to provide a conceptual
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (8) ---

framework for discussion, analysis, or information retrieval. For

example, car is a subtype of vehicle. So any car is also a vehicle,
but not every vehicle is a car. So, a thing needs to satisfy more
constraints to be a car than to be a vehicle. In the world of Crime, a
sub-classification of the Crime is made into three categories, under
Islamic Law, such as Qisas; Hadood and Ta‟zir.
4.1.3. Constant Comparison/Grounded Theory - ‫يما رَت‬
‫يستًرة‬
The codes are compared to find out consistencies and
differences. Specific events are categorized. The analysis made on
the basis of data comparison and not at one‟s own.
4.2. Speech Analysis -ٌ‫تحهيم انبيا‬
A speech is the expression of someone‟s inner feelings and
motivations. It, always, played an important role in directing a
human conduct towards a particular behavior. It is reported by
Abdullah bin Umar (‫ ) رضى هللا عنه‬that two person visited the Holy
Prophet ( ‫) صلى هللا عليه و سلن‬.The speech made before the assembly
attracted the audience to such an extent that the Holy Prophet ( ‫صلى‬
‫ ) هللا عليه و سلن‬said that, of course, there is a magic in the narration
It is the significance of a speech and its effect on human mind that
Moses ( ‫ ) عليه السال م‬made a request before the Almighty Allah for a
better supplement in speech, in the form of his brother Aaron, at
the time of his visit to Pharaoh. After acceding to the request; the
Almighty Allah directed Moses to low in voice while addressing
Pharaoh so that the latter might had some influence. The speech of
an individual is taken up for analyzing the data. It involves study
of literature, diaries or folklore.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (9) ---

4.2.1. Narrative Analysis- ‫تحهيم انروايت‬

A statement means the narration of certain facts either
existed or non-existed at the relevant time. The same is to be
analyzed with reference to that context.
Narrative analysis is a form of discourse analysis that seeks to
study the textual devices at work in the constructions of process or
sequence within a text. The words used either in a speech or in a
text are given the technical color by differentiating it from the
literal composition having regard to the usage as well as customary
applications thereof for which these are taken by the speaker or the
writer. This is done by undergoing an explanation thereof by other
text on the subject. For making an analysis of the statement or
contents of a text, one may fall in the following situation:-
i. What are the plain and evident meanings being offered are
conveyed either to the reader or to the listener?
It is a case where remains no doubt about the sense being
conveyed under the text or speech. The instance thereof
may be the occasion where in the angels prostrated
themselves, all together. [Qur‟an 15:30]
The word, “all of them together show that no one was left
behind for the purpose of prostration. There is no ambiguity
in the text in case of clear statement; there is no need for
making an analysis thereof for the purpose of further
interpretation and research.
This type of narration is given the name of an elaborated
statement.‫بياٌ تمرير‬
The other instance thereof is as under:
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (10) ---

Nor a being that flies on its wings [Qur‟an 6:38]

ii. Whether the statement, either oral or written, requires some
further explanation or elaboration, for the purpose of
research and interpretation?
This situation appears where the simple and plain meaning
of the narration/statement is insufficient for the purpose of
and interpretation or analysis. A detail is lacking therein.
The instance thereof is the command for offering a prayer.
But the manner of prayer is not mentioned. This statement
is further explained by another text or speech, “Prayer as
you see me praying”.
This situation is called as an enabling statement ‫بياٌ تفسير‬

iii. Whether the statement either oral are written is made

subject to any condition or not? If the statement is made
under some conditions or subjected to certain exceptions, it
is taken as altered position. For the purpose of terminology;
this type of statement is called as a statement supplemented
by exceptions i.e. ‫بياٌ تغير‬
The instance thereof is as under:
Take not life, which Allah Hath made sacred, except by way of Justice
and Law. [6:151]
In this case, homicide is prohibited but may be taken away
in the situation where the killing is allowed by law. The
requirement of statement is changed and as a result thereof,
killing of a murderer is allowed.
iv. Whether the statement is made subject to the fulfillment of
a condition it goes with the existence or non existence of
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (11) ---

that vary condition. The example thereof may be taken of

as under:
Of course; you are duty bound, to give the labour charges to the
females, in the case, they feed milk to the infant for you. [65:6.]

The first requirement is that one is not under any

obligation to made payment of the wages after the
termination of a marriage. However this situation is
altogether change, in case of suckling of the child. In case
of suckling, one is duty bound to make payment of the
wages. This first situation is overtaken by the second
situation. This type of statement is called as substituted or
altered statement- ‫بياٌ تبذيم‬
v. Whether it is situation where the original meanings are not
sufficient to cope with the requirement and situations?
In the case, where the meanings originally assigned to a text are
extended to some other situation under a necessary implication,
this is called as a statement by necessity –‫ بياٌ انضرورة‬For instance:-
And, in the case, the deceased is succeeded by his parents, then 1/3 share is for
the mother. [4:11]
The share allotted to the mother is one out of three. The father is
not mentioned in this case. But by necessary implications, it is
taken that the father gets the rest of the share. i.e. 2/3 share out of
the estate left by deceased issueless son or daughter.
4.2.2 Discourse Analysis - ‫تحهيم انًمال‬
Several people discussion and not of the individual person
is taken up for the purpose of analysis. Semiotics, deconstruction
and narrative analysis are forms of discourse analysis. A study of
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (12) ---

the way versions or the world, society, events and psyche are
produced in the use of language and discourse. On the subject,
there are many instances in Islamic literature and some of these are
taken up as under:
i. For the purpose of a selection for the first caliph, people
gathered in the compound of Sa‟d, amongst the Ansar.
After a thorough discussion, the matter was concluded
in the selection of Abu Bakar —‫رضى هللا عنه‬
ii. After a due consultation and discussion; the place for battle
against the non-believers was opted in Badar.
iii. The prisoners of Badar were released against some
considerations. It was done after a discussion despite
the fact that difference of opinion was there.
iv. The despatch of armies was done after a proper discussion
and consultations amongst the member of the assembly
at certain occasions.
5. Text Analysis – ٍ‫تحهيم انًت‬
5.1 Literal Analysis-‫تحهيم انًحتىي‬
A literal analysis of a text may be made by observing the following
connotations.
5.1.1 Content Analysis- ٍ‫تحهيم انًت‬
The text, document or speech is seen to find the meaning
and end result which
has a logical appearance. For example; what do most of the people
talk about it under the custom, practice as well as under the
linguistic meanings and discipline? The world Jariah ( ) stand
for a maidservant as well as a boat. Therefore; it is to be taken
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (13) ---

under the situation which prevailed at the time of addressee and the
speaker.
5.1.2. When a text is not obvious in its plain meanings, the same is
analyzed by having a reference to the following rules of
interpretation.
5.1.2.1 Plain meaning of the Text - ‫ عبارة انُض‬Ibarat al-nass
The instances thereof are:-
1. And you are not to kill the living person who is protected by Allah
except under the right.
A plain reading shows that homicide is prohibited. [6:151]
Sometimes a text may have more than one meaning; one meaning
will be primary and the other will be secondary. In the verse of
Holy Qur‟an:
2. They said, “Of course, the sale equallent to usury”. Whereas; the
transaction under a sale is permitted by Allah and the usury stand
prohibited.[2:275]
A plain reading indicates two meanings. The first is the negation of
a similarity between bay and Riba, while the second is the
permissibility of Ba‟y and prohibition of Riba. The first is the
primary meaning and the second is secondary.
3. Marry women of your choice, two, or three, or four; but

if ye fear that ye shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then
only one.[Qur‟an 4:3]
There are three meanings. The first is permissibility of marriage.
The second is the restriction of marrying more than four wives.
The third is the restriction of
marrying only one when there is fear of causing injustice.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (14) ---

5.1.2.2. Conotational Meanings of the Text- ‫ اشا رة انُض‬Isharat

al-nass
An indication is available in the text whereby a focus is
made on the main object of text which, after a little reflection, is
evident therein. This establishment does not require a reference to
some other text. It is within the same text.
The feeding and clothing of females is on the person whose child they are
bearing.[2:233]
A plain reading indicates that the maintenance of a wife weaning a
child is on the husband. This text is also indicative of the fact that
that the child is for the father.
And the period of pregnancy coupled with his weaning is thirty months. [46:15]
And his weaning is within 2 years. [31:14]
These verses, taken as a whole, are indicative of the fact that the
minimum period of gestation is six months.
5.1.2.3. Textual Implied Meanings- ‫ دالنت انُض‬-Dalalat al-nass
It is an extension of the established matter, on the basis of a
common meaning, to the other thing which is not mentioned in the
text. For example;
And never say a word of disrespect to the both.[17:23]
The plain reading of the text indicates that saying “fie” to parents
is prohibited. As an implication thereof, the causing grievous harm
to the parents is prohibited. So is the position with respect to
abusing and beatings.
Those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans eat up a fire into their own
bodies: they will soon be enduring a blazing fire.[4:10]
This is indicative of the fact, by plain reading, that consumption of
property belonging to the orphans is prohibited. By necessary
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (15) ---

implication thereof; the setting fire to the wealth of the orphan or

unjustly destroying it in any other way is also prohibited.
5.1.2.4 Textual-Requirement - ‫ التضاء انُض‬Iqtida’ al-nass
The word iqtida means demand or requirement. In this context, it is
a meaning required by the text in addition to what is stated by the
words.
Your mothers and your daughters are prohibited for you.[4:23]
The prohibition in this context is the prohibition for the purpose of
marriage. A mention of marriage is required in the text.
The meat of a dead body, the blood and the flesh of swine is prohibited for
you.[5:23]
The word food or eating is not clearly mentioned here but it is the
requirement of text that these are to be taken so.
5.1.2.5. Opposite Meaning - ‫ يفهىو انًخا نفت‬- Mafhum al-mukhalaf
It is an indirect communication by adopting and taking the
opposite situation with reference to the situation explicitly
mentioned in the text. It is also called dalil al-khitab or an indirect
evidence of the communication.
And whosoever amongst you is unable to get marry with the free believing
women, then, of course, for you are the believing girls.[4:25]
As per the text; in the case, one is unable to marry a free woman; it
is permissible for him to marry a believing slave. The opposite
meaning thereof may be taken as no permission for marrying non-
believing slave girl. The extension of this method may be further
explained and taken as under:
A sense of Condition-- ‫ يفهىو انشرط‬Mafhum al-shart
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (16) ---

It is a situation, where a thing is dependent or made subject

to the fulfillment or non-existence of a condition, it is to go with it,
otherwise; the adverse analysis is to be done. In the above verse,
the condition for marrying believing slave girls
is subject to the condition of a person‟s inability to marry free
women. If one is able to marry a free woman, then it is not
permissible for him to marry a slave girl.
And if they carry pregnancy, then you are to spend on them till the
delivery.[65:6]
This implies that there is no maintenance for a woman who is
bearing no pregnancy.
A sense of end result- - ‫ يفهىو انغايت‬Mafhum al-ghayah
In the case, where a limit is available in the text, after the expiry
and end of that limitation, the previous state of affair is to be again
operative. For example, it is permissible to eat and during
Ramadan till the white of the dawn is visible. As soon this stage is
over, the prohibition of eating and drinking is operative.
And fight with them until there is no more disturbances and the religion as a
whole becomes for Allah.[8:38]
Numerical Sense - ‫يفهىو انعذد‬-Mafhum al-adad
A sense other than the mentioned cannot be taken where a
determined number is mentioned in the text. For instance, the hadd
is prescribed for 100 stripes in adultery; therefore, it is to 100
stripes, neither more nor less.
A sense of proper noun- ‫ يفهىو انهمب‬-.Mafhum al-laqab
Where a sense is associated with a proper noun, the sense
for all others will be taken as an opposite. For example, where the
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (17) ---

text says, “Prohibited for you are your mothers…..,” it means that
all persons not mentioned are permitted.
5.1.3 Hermeneutical Analysis- ً‫انتحهيم انعرف‬
A sense of written text is made. Objective meanings of the
text are not looked into. The meanings of the text are taken as the
people took them in a situation either in literature or in culture. In
general, this method is associated with qualitative social research.
5.1.4 Semiotics Analysis -‫تحهيم االشارا ث‬
The meanings of sign and symbols are determined for the
purpose of construction. It is the study of sign processes
(semiosis), or signification and communication, signs and symbols,
both individually and grouped into sign systems. It includes the
study of how meaning is constructed and understood.
5.2. Grammatical Analysis -‫تحهيم بانمىاعذ انصرف وانُحى‬
5.2.1 Syntax Analysis -- ‫انتحهيم انُحىي‬
When a text is not obvious in its plain meanings, the same
is analyzed by having a reference to the following rules of
interpretation.
Common noun - ‫ عاو‬- A’m
A common noun is termed as a word which has a general
application to all of the befitted person or things. The words
denoting this sense are described hereinafter.
i. Every;
Every living person is to taste the death [3:185]

ii. Whatsoever;
There is no creature on the earth except whose sustenance is not made
by Allah.[11:6]
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (18) ---

iii. All;
All that is on earth will perish : [55:26]
iv. All things;
And all thing things are within the control of Allah. [3:189]
A word may be general in the form or it may be general in
it‟s meanings.
Specific word- ‫ خاص‬- Khas
When a word is applied by a single application to a limited
number of things, including everything to which it can be applied,
say one or two or a hundred and so on, it is called a specific word.
A specific word is an opposite of general word. Generally; there is
no Common noun - ‫ عام‬- but the same is made specific in it‟s
application. A word is made specific in the following manner. The
words used for this purpose are:-
With respect to its context;
A common noun such as a man is made specific
with respect to its context. In the following verse; the man
is specified as who came running from the remote place
and was the informer for Moses (‫)عليه السال م‬.
i. And a man came running from a far away area of the City.
[28:20]
ii. Untill;
And never come nearby the females until they are in a state of purity.[2:222]
Untill the Jizya is paid by them.[9:29]
iii. Till;
You are to complete the fasting till the night.[2:187]‫أ‬

iv. Except;
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (19) ---

And you are not to say about a thing, "I shall do it tomorrow except
under the wish of Allah.[18:23-24]
v. Who;
Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to God, those who can afford the
journey. [3:97]
The performance of Hajj is made particularized with the
capacity of its performer.
vi. Exclusion by necessary implication;
God is the Creator of all things [39:62]
Allah is the creator of all things but not of himself.
vii. Specialized under senses
And provided with every requisite; [27:23]
The Queen ruling over Sabians was given everything but as
a matter of fact she was not bestowed with all of the things
like that of Solomon. Some things were not given to her.
viii. Made subject to condition;
Destroying all things by the commandment of its Lord [46:25]
The destruction is subject to the command of Allah.
Whereunto, the produce of all things is brought in. [28:57]
ix. Exemption;
O ye who believe! When the call is proclaimed to prayer on Friday, hasten
earnestly to the Remembrance of God [62:9]
As a matter of sense, a slave and a woman had exception thereto.
O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those
before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint, (Fasting) for a fixed number of
days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be
made up) from days later .[2:183-184]
But if he cannot afford it, He should fast three days during the hajj and seven
days on his return, [2:196]
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (20) ---

The observance of fasting during Ramdhan and during pilgrimage

is made specified under certain conditions of hardship and
inconvenience.
Absolute- ‫ يطهك‬-Mutlaq
If by a derivative or generic noun is meant the thing or a person
named without any limitation, it is called absolute (mutlaq),
But Pharaoh disobeyed the apostle [73:16]
The plain meaning of the verse is indicating that the nature and
qualification of the disobedience is not limited. It is made absolute.
Limited -‫ يميذ‬-Muqayyad
If by a derivative or generic noun is meant the thing named or a
person with a limitation, it is called limited.
Limited by condition;
i. After payment of legacies and debts; [4:12]
Here, the distribution of inheritance is made subject to the
payment of loan or the fulfillment of a will. The absolute
distribution is limited by a condition precedent thereto.
i. And a believing slave be freed. For those who find this beyond
their means, (is prescribed) a fast for two months running:
[4:92]

In this case, the neck is made specific. The same is to be a

believing neck and the observance of continuous fasting is made
limited and subject to the condition of non availability of believing
neck.
ii. And if any has not (the wherewithal), he should fast for two
months consecutively [58:4]
The observance of fasting is made continuous. This condition of
continuity has limited the scope of fasting.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (21) ---

Homonyms- ‫ يشترن‬- Mushtarak

A word is analyzed with respect to its applications to many
things. For example, the word „spring‟ may mean a spring of
water, or the spring of a clock, or the spring of a tiger. The word ‫جا‬
‫ريت‬is indicative of more than one application, one is for a boat. The
second is for a maid-servant. SS
5.2.2. Analysis with respect to explicit sense.
5.2.2.1 Manifest - ‫ ظاهر‬- Zahir
The meaning of a word in a passage or sentence may be disclosed
or concealed. When it is disclosed the word is said to be apparent
or manifest of meaning (Zahir).For instance, the meaning of the
Qur‟anic text,‟ God has made sale lawful and forbidden riba, is
manifest so far as the legality and illegality respectively of the two
transaction are concerned.
Explicit- ‫ َض‬-Nass
If it is still further disclosed, by means of the context, it is regarded
as clear or explicit (nass).In the Holy Qur‟an
They said, “Of course, the sale equallent to usury”. Whereas; the transaction
under a sale is permitted by Allah and the usury stand prohibited.[2:275]
The above Surah is regarded as explicit in distinguishing Riba
from a Sale.
Elaborated- ‫ يفسر‬- Mufassar
If it is so clear that no doubt remained in the field about any of the
limitation in the context. it is regarded as explained or unequivocal
(mufassar).
In the text of the Qur‟an,
Of course, then, all of the angles bowed their heads. [Qur‟an 15:30]
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (22) ---

Unalterably fixed- ‫ يحكى‬-Mukham

And if it is made still clearer so that the possibility of repeal is
precluded, it is said to be settled or unalterably fixed (muhkam).
5.2.2.2. Analysis with respect to obscurity- ‫اخفاء‬
Obscured- ً‫ خف‬- khafi
The word obscured or khafi is one whose meaning is concealed
and the the intention is unclear due a deficiency in the form.
Difficult-- ‫ يشكم‬-Mmushkil or the difficult word is the opposite of
Nass.
It is a word whose meaning is difficult to discover expect by
evidence that removes the remaining ambiguity.
Unelaborated- ‫ يجًم‬-Mujamal .
It is the unelaborated word and the same is the opposite of
mufassar - ‫يفسر‬
Or it is forgiven by the man who is authorized to give her hand in ‫أ‬
marriage.[2:237]
The relinquishment of dower is left with the domain of a person
giving the hand in marriage. The husband is left at his option.
i. Forbidden to you are: dead meat, [5:3]
ii. Prohibited to you are:- Your mothers, [4:23]
The nature of prohibition, in the two verses motioned above is not
elaborated.
The unintelligible -‫ يتشا بت‬- Mutashabih
It is a term in which; the possibility of knowing the
intention is not there.
The word thief (sariq) ‫ سا رق‬in Arabic language is distinct from the
word ‫ َباش‬nabbash and ‫ طرار‬tarrar. Therefore; the applicability of
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (23) ---

punishment of cutting the hands is a matter of concern for the

Judges.
5. 3. Metaphorical Analysis- ‫تحهيم يجازي‬
In the case, a word is used in a sense other than it‟s original
meanings and application, it is called as ‫ يجاز‬majaz such as
touching ‫ نًس‬means intercourse.In this connection, various
metaphors are tried such as high way in many ways such as traffic,
intersections, and teachers as police officer.
6. Method Common to Text and Speech
6.1. Domain Analysis -‫تحهيم انًجال‬
An analysis of language of people is made in a cultural context just
like Punjabi, English, and Jews etc. Social situation and cultural
patterns are taken up to reach a just conclusion i.e.Folk domains
and mixed domains.
6.2. Analytic induction- ً‫انتحهيم انُفس‬
For the purpose of Data Analytic, an effort is made to establish a
link between the two prepositions so that a common effective
cause be extended from the original source to the new event or set
of events. The effort is to continue till a just conclusion is arrived
at.After looking one event another similar event is taken up and it
is seen as to whether it fit the hypothesis. For instance; the offering
of prayer is forbidden for a woman during her menstruation
periods. Whether this prohibition equally applies to having an
intercourse during the afore-said period?It is a logical induction of
the causal links between the known things and the unknown things.
6.3. Logical Analysis / Matrix -‫تحهيم انتفكير‬
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (24) ---

It is a logical reasoning process. An outline of generalized

causation is made.In Islam; the one, while on journey, is exempted
from observing Fast, in the month of Ramdhan. The reason and
logic behind it is a laborious and hard walk. Does this exemption
fully applicable to a journey by aero plane, in these days? The
problem is to be solved by making a reference to the cause of
exemption -‫ انعهت‬-in a logical manner.
6.4. Quasi-Statistics- ‫اال حصائياث انجسئيت‬
The calculation, for the purpose of payments, under certain
circumstances and certain conditions is done for smooth
administration of justice.
6.5. Event Analysis/Micro Analysis- ‫تحهيم انىالع‬
It is a frame analysis. It is a precise beginning and endings of the
events within specific boundaries. The example thereof may be
taken up as the assembly for the appointment of First Caliph
wherein the two groups advanced their reservations and ultimately
come to a definite conclusion.
7. Inter-se application of the above categorization
The above mentioned categorization is not independent of
each other. This arrangement is made for the purpose of a facility
for a reader to understand the work in a simple and easy way.
However, the rules of making an analysis under the head of a
speech may be applied to the category of a text and vice versa.
Same is the position with respect to the last head (6) of common
applications to the speech and text.
CONCLUSIONS
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (25) ---

These are the rules, principles and guidelines, in brief,

under which the authenticity, reliability and validity-essential
components of a research-of a fact under study and research may
be testified, multiplied, finalized and judged to reach a sound and
just conclusion in Islamic Studies, and the same may be extended
to the disciples of Social Sciences such as Urdu, English and
Legal, as well. Further that; it is the flexibility of these analyzing
rules that has made the applicability of Islamic Injunctions as
universal and befitting with all of the situations due to change in
time, space, and place as compared to Old and New Testaments.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (26) ---

BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Chandler, Daniel. (2001/2007). Semiotics: The Basics. London:
Routledge.
2. Franzosi, R. P. (2004) From Words to Numbers: Narrative, Data, and
Social Science. New York: Cambridge University Press
3. Giele, J. Z.,& Elder Jr., G. H. (1998). Methods of Life Course
Research: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. London: Sage.
4. Jack Katz (2001) "Analytic Induction," in Smelser and Baltes, (eds)
International Encyclopaedia of the Social and Behavioural Sciences.
5. Jenna Burnell 1995 to 2003- What is considered to be Research-
James Cook University.
6. Krippendorff, K. (2004)- Content Analysis: An Introduction to Its
Methodology- 2nd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sag
7. Lidov, David (1999) -Elements of Semiotics- New York: St. Martin's
Press.
8. Mishler, E. G.(1986). -The analysis of interview narratives- In T. R.
Sarbin (Ed.), 9.Narrative Psychology New York: Praeger.
10. Stembrouck, S. (2004) -What is meant by "discourse analysis"?
11. http://bank.rug.ac.be/da/da.htm
12. Weber, R. P. (1990) Basic Content Analysis. 2nd ed. Newbury Park,
CA: Sage.
13. Wodak, R & Meyer, M. (2001) - Methods of Critical Discourse
Analysis- London: Sage.
14. Znaniecki, F. (1934)- The method of sociology- New York: Farrar &
Rinehart.
Al-Qalam 2009 --- (27) ---

‫عربي هراجع وهصادر‬

1. Al-Shafi‟i- al-Risalah, Cairo : Bulaq 1321 A.H

2. Al-Shaybani al-Asl, Cairo: Matba‟ah Jami‟at al-Qahirah, 1954
3. Ibn al Subki, „Jamu’al Jawani’, alongwith the commentary by al-
Mahalli and al- Bannani, Cairo, 1292 A.H.
4. Sadr al-Shari‟ah, al-Tdwdih, Cairo, 1957
5. Al-Shawkani- Mohammad bin Ali bin Mohammad- Irshad al-Fuhul,
Cairo, 1347A.H
6. Al-Ghazali, al-mustafa, Cairo, 1937
7. Al-Sarakhsi, Usul al-Sarakhsi, Cairo, 1954
8. Al-Bazdawi- Usul al_Bazdawi, on the margin of Kashf al-Asrar, Cairo
9. Sadr al_Shari‟ah, al-Tawdih, Cairo, 1957

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