Manuscripta Orientalia - O. Redkin, O. Bernikova. The Qur’ān — Recursive Elements and the Continuum of the Text

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O. Redkin, O. Bernikova. The Qur’ān — Recursive Elements and the Continuum of the Text

Oleg Redkin

St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
E-mail: oleg_redkin@mail.ru

Olga Bernikova

St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
E-mail: bernikova@mail.ru

The Qur’ān — Recursive Elements
and the Continuum of the Text

Abstract. This article examines the distinctive linguistic features of the Qur’an. The unity of the Qur’an as a coherent whole is shaped by several linguistic factors, particularly the frequent use of recursive elements. Using corpus research methods, the study analyzes the frequency of individual lexemes. As a case study, the article explores discursive markers that contribute to the coherence of the Qur’an text. The concept of a “discursive word” is based on the framework outlined in the monograph Linear and Nonlinear Means of Ensuring Coherence in Language and Semantic Density of the Text. The methodology involves a comparative analysis of data from the Qur’an, alongside results from studies of Modern Standard Arabic texts presented in the monograph. Applying the methodology, the study identifies categories such as connectors, words conveying strong emphasis, markers of weak emphasis, and lexemes expressing contrastive themes.

Keywords: Qur’an, coherence, discursive markers, connector, corpus, Arabic

Acknowledgments. The study was carried out within the framework of the project 95445711, supported by Saint Petersburg State University (Russia) “Research Laboratory for Analysis and Modeling of Social Processes”.

DOI: 10.31250/1238-5018-2025-31-2-21-28

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Received by the Editorial Board: 25.12.2024