Loanwords in the Qur'an: A Comparative Examination of the Views of Proponents and Opponents with Emphasis on the Words “Ibrīq,” “Istabraq,” and “Sundus”

Abstract

The present study examines the arguments of both proponents and opponents of the existence of loanwords in the Qur'an through a comparative analysis of three words over which there is scholarly disagreement regarding their status as loanwords. This research adopts a qualitative, theoretical approach, and—similar to other theoretical studies—employs descriptive and document analysis methods using library-based data. However, it also undertakes a comparative and case-based review of the extracted opinions. The evidence analyzed in this study includes three Qur'anic words—Ibrīq, Istabraq, and Sundus—about which Qur'anic scholars hold conflicting views concerning their being loanwords or not. Through the review of the views of Qur'anic scholars and exegetes, three main positions were identified: One group denies the presence of any such words. In contrast, another group accepts their existence, while a third group attempts to reconcile the two opposing views. The findings suggest that the arguments of those who support the theory of the Qur'an being free from loanwords are more theological than linguistic in nature, stemming from their belief in the antiquity and pre-eternal origin of the Qur'an. The main argument of the opponents of the presence of loanwords regarding these words is that these terms are of Arabic origin and were only later translated into the languages of non-Arabs. However, this reasoning is speculative because identifying loanwords—other than proper names—in any language is a complex and demanding task. The middle position, in practice, does not significantly differ from the view of those who accept the presence of loanwords in the Qur'an, as they too consider the origin of these words to be non-Arabic.