MISHKAT

MISHKAT

A Psychological Discourse Analysis of Al-Inshiqaq Surah Based on John Searle's Speech Act Theory

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mansour Homeirani 1
Ebrahim Zare'ifar 2
1 M.A, Qur'an and Tradition Sciences, PNU, Fasa, Iran (corresponding author)
2 Theology and Islamic Studies Department, Islamic Azad University, Fasa, Iran
10.22034/mishkat.2025.537667.2600
Abstract
This study aims to apply modern linguistic theories to the analysis of religious texts, focusing on the psychological dimensions of speech acts in Al-Inshiqaq Surah, based on John Searle’s Speech Act Theory. Adopting an analytical approach and emphasizing discourse structures as well as linguistic context, the research seeks to provide new context for a deeper understanding of Qur’anic Surahs and teachings. The discourse structure of Surah Al-Inshiqaq reflects three core thematic systems, all centered around the continuous human effort throughout life and its impact on one's ultimate destiny in meeting with God. Findings reveal that assertive and expressive speech acts are the most frequent and influential within the Surah’s discourse. Assertive acts emphasize the necessity of accepting fundamental transformations and preparing for the final encounter with God, while expressive acts aim to evoke deep emotional responses by portraying the ideal and critical states of the righteous and the sinful. Overall, assertive acts highlight the theme of spiritual preparedness, whereas expressive acts illustrate the existential condition of human beings.
Keywords
Qur’an
Al-Inshqaq Surah
Speech Act
John Searle
Psychology
Discourse
Subjects
  1. Searl, John R., speech Acts: an Essay in the philosophy of language, Cambridge, Cambridge university press, 1975.