Koran’s Symbolization in The Story of Noah (PBUH)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, Department of Koranic Sciences and Hadith, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin

2 Graduate in Koranic Sciences and Hadith, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin,

Abstract

In the story of Noah (PBUH) as one of its most salutary stories Koran clearly illustrates the opposition between the right and wrong, depicting, modeling and conducting symbolization for the posterity of significant and outstanding characters with regard to both sides of the opposition. Symbolization in the story of Noah has been conducted under the two categories of “characters” and “events”. Heroes or positive characters are Noah (PBUH) symbolizing adherence and resistance on the right pathway, and his few followers who stand for salvation and good ending. Antiheroes or negative characters i.e. the stubborn and unbelieving affluent (mala’) and extravagant (mūṭrīfīn), including the wife and son of Noah (PBUH), are the symbols of evading the truth and of the wrong. Furthermore, Koran has artistically conducted symbolization of some events in the story. The storm, ark, and age of Noah (PBUH) have long been considered the symbols of divine planning and wrath, salvation and safety, and divine destiny respectively. Attention to these symbolizations in Koranic stories helps a clearer depiction thereof in written and visual media.

Keywords

References

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