A Review Study: Critique and Review of Izutsu's Qur'anic Semantic Methodology

Abstract

Lexical structural semantics is a branch of semantics that Izutsu applied to the Qur'anic domain using a diachronic approach based on the semantic theories of Leo Weisgerber and ethnolinguistics. In his Qur'anic semantics, Izutsu introduced a novel perspective on the conceptual and lexical studies of the Qur'an. Notably, his discussions on mapping semantic networks and concepts have significantly contributed to presenting a cohesive picture of Qur'anic concepts and vocabulary.The systematization of semantic studies in the Qur'an and the provision of a diachronic perspective in lexical studies can be considered among the major achievements of Izutsu's semantic method. However, alongside the strengths of this method, its weaknesses must also be addressed. Izutsu's ethnolinguistic semantics, due to its reliance on the extreme form of the linguistic relativity hypothesis (or the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis), has faced serious criticisms. These include an excessive emphasis on the role of language in thought and an overly ethnocentric analysis of linguistic topics. Furthermore, Izutsu's Qur'anic semantic method requires further scientific investigation in certain foundational aspects, such as the formation of semantic fields.This article, using a descriptive method, seeks to examine Izutsu's semantic method and critique its foundations in this field, aiming to facilitate a more effective utilization of semantics.