The Impact of Cognitive Schemas on the Conceptualization of Evil in Nahj al-Balagha

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of the Department of Quranic Studies and Hadith, Faculty of Theology, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran

2 Faculty of Theology, Faculty of Sciences, Quran and Hadith, Al-Zahra University, Tehran, Iran

3 PhD student in Quran and Hadith Sciences - Member of the Research Group of Interdisciplinary Quran and Hadith Studies, Al-Zahra University (S), Al-Zahra University

Abstract

The discourse of Imam Ali (AS) in Nahj al-Balagha has been examined from various perspectives, but its linguistic aspects have received less attention. The concept of "Satan," as one of the key themes in the Imam's speeches, is an abstract domain whose understanding leads to a better comprehension of Satan and its function.Cognitive schemas, as a fundamental tool for understanding abstract concepts in cognitive linguistics, play a significant role.Given the eloquence and multiple layers of meaning in Nahj al-Balagha, the use of this tool is essential for a deeper understanding.This research aims to analyze the schemas employed in the text using a schema-based approach in cognitive linguistics. In this regard, 22 sermons,13 letters, and two wisdoms were extracted, and the role of Satan as a factor in human misguidance was examined.The findings show that schemas such as force and its types, balance, volume, and movement are influential in conceptualizing Satan. The force schema conceptualizes Satan from two perspectives:first, as a powerful force in destroying humans with the aim of leading them to destruction, and second, as an ineffective force against those who obey God's commands. The balance schema expresses Satan's role in disrupting the balance of individual and social life. The volume schema refers to Satan's gradual penetration into the human soul and domination over human cognitive faculties. Finally, based on the category of movement, Satan's function in deviating humans from the path of servitude, leading them astray, and distancing them from their destination or losing their way is conceptualized.

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