Seraje Monir

Linguistic analysis of Surah An-Naml within the framework of Searle's speech act theory

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Elahe Kamari

Assistant Professor, Department of English Language Teaching, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22054/ajsm.2026.85235.2121
Abstract
This research examines the linguistic aspects of Surah An-Naml within the framework of John Searle's speech act theory. The primary aim is to analyze the types of speech acts (representative, directive, commissive, expressive, and declaration) and their roles in conveying theological messages, historical lessons, and preparing the audience for the afterlife. Employing a descriptive-analytical method and Searle's classification, the verses of Surah An-Naml were systematically analyzed. The findings indicate that representative acts (41%), emphasizing historical and natural truths, form the foundational argument of the Surah. Directive acts (27%), through a combination of direct commands and interrogative questions, call on the audience to change their behavior. Commissive acts (25%), through promises and threats, reinforce confidence in divine justice, while expressives (6%) and declarations (1%) highlight empathy and divine authority, respectively. This research represents a novel step in the interactive analysis of the Quran and the understanding of its multifaceted objectives by linking modern linguistic theories with religious texts.

Keywords

Speech act
Surah An-Naml
Quranic linguistics
textual analysis
John Searle
Subjects
Seraje Monir

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 28 April 2026

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