“The Relevance of Quranic Stories to the Themes of Chapters: Surah Adh-Dhariyat as a case study”

Abstract

This research addresses the topic of Quranic parables (moral stories) by revealing the correlation between these stories and the themes of the chapters in which they are mentioned. This is done through an applied model that emphasizes the multiple mentions of stories and their relevance. The chosen example for this study is Surah Adh-Dhariyat. Consequently, the title of the research is “The Relevance of Quranic Stories to the Themes of Chapters: Surah Adh-Dhariyat as a case study’’.

This study is presented in two sections. The first section includes a general introduction to Surah Adh-Dhariyat, followed by an elucidation of its central themes. The second section is dedicated to uncovering the connections between the stories mentioned in the Surah and its central themes. This is done through an analytical and introspective approach, relying on the statements of scholars of Tafsir, particularly those interested in the science of correlation between verses.

This research has yielded numerous results, including the following: The Quranic stories found in Surah Adh-Dhariyat are aptly aligned with its three central themes, namely: the theme of sustenance, the theme of resurrection, and the theme of worship. These themes are interconnected. The research, however, specifically addressed the relevance of the stories to each of these themes separately. This approach facilitated the observation and deduction of the underlying meanings embedded in these stories, serving the central themes and clarifying them.

Furthermore, one of the conclusions of this research is that Quranic stories are presented in each Surah in a manner that suits and serves its central themes. Therefore, the examination of the relevance of stories to the themes of the Surahs constitutes one of the most important approaches for reflection on Quranic stories.

The research has also concluded by mentioning some areas of contemplation in specific stories aimed at guidance, considering their relevance to the themes of the Surahs. This includes examining their order of occurrence in those Surahs, the associated wording unique to them, as well as the specific details mentioned in those stories that distinguish them in that context. Additionally, it involves exploring the beautiful names of Allah mentioned within them and the variations in their arrangement from one Surah to another.