Browsing by Author "DJamilla, Belauda"

This research deals with the concept of steadfastness (Istiqamah), which is one of the key concepts in the Quranic system. Moreover, it is one of the ethical concepts in the Qur’anof more merit and interest.In essence, Istiqamah, represents the straight path of Allah.The research aims at exploring the semantic structure of the concept, which makes its main composition, as well as examining its conceptual extensions. In other words, it examines what has been usually termed as the conceptual network related to the concept of Istiqamah. Such study, will not be complete unless and until the semantic filed of the concept is deeply examined in order to to scrutinise the related meanings.The research uses both analytical and inductive methodologies to trace the concept in Mecca and Medina revealed verses. It explores the opinions of commentators of the Qur’an on the chain of meanings of the concept.The semantic analytical approach is also used to de-construct the components of the semantic structure and its relational concepts in the texts. The research also provided a case analysis of the application of Istiqamah in the life of the prophet Mohammed; namely in his family life.The research concluded that the verses related to Istiqamah constitute the foundational patterns as they are the value based framework which guide the ethical system of the Qur’an in which the concept of straight path (sirat al-Mustaqim) plays a crucial role in providing the unique Quranic worldview. The Qur'an defines sirat al-mustaqim (straight path) as the true religion so as to emphasise the path of Allah, which was the pattern of all prophets and messengers, representing the unifying religious unity of the people of the book. This in turn, stresses the epistemological and methodological unity of the concept of straight path.The research also brought home that the efforts of the people of Tafsir in defining the concept of Istiqamah in its major Quranic contexts lack preciseness and methodological process of discerning the semantic meaning of the concept within the Quranic worldview. Most of the definitions provided by the commentators couldn't reach the level of maturity required to put a more coherent and comprehensive definition of Istiqamah as advocated in Islam and the seal of prophethood.