Semiotics of the Character of Prophet Zakariyya in the Holy Qur’an

Abstract

The Holy Qur’an, as a revelatory text rich in semantic indications, employs a network of linguistic signs that enables the discovery of profound layers of meaning. Within this framework, Qur’anic characters function as dynamic signs, each representing a distinct discourse. The present study focuses on the semiotic analysis of the character of Prophet Zakariyya (peace be upon him) in the Holy Qur’an—a prophet praised among the righteous, whose narrative encompasses meanings that extend beyond a mere historical report. Examining this character from a semiotic perspective not only illuminates the mystical, pedagogical, and theological dimensions associated with him, but also reveals the Qur’an’s expressive strategies for conveying elevated concepts through human symbols. Accordingly, re-reading the story of Prophet Zakariyya as a “sign” opens a window into the Qur’an’s system of meaning-making. In this study, the character of Prophet Zakariyya is analyzed through a semiotic approach derived from Philippe Hamon’s model of character semiotics, examining the signifier (onomastics, syntactic and rhetorical analysis), the signified (verbal and behavioral actions, quantitative and qualitative criteria), and the levels of character description (biological, psychological, social, and symbolic). Based on Hamon’s theory of character semiotics, this research explores the diverse dimensions of Prophet Zakariyya’s character in the Qur’an through the analysis of signifier (name and verbal signs), signified (concepts and meanings), and his attributes. The findings indicate complete congruence between the name and attributes of this character and his narrative function and role within the Qur’anic discourse. Considering the deep connection between semiotics and Qur’anic exegesis, this study, by analyzing the semiotic structure of Zakariyya’s character, takes a step toward a deeper understanding of the Qur’an’s expressive subtleties and rhetorical nuances. Such an approach can serve as a model for the re-examination of other Qur’anic characters and for explaining the systematic relationship between the form and content of verses