The Foundations of Rhetoric "By Al-Zamakhshari"

Abstract

Asas al-Balagha" (The Foundations of Rhetoric) is a remarkable work by the prominent Arab scholar, Abu al-Qasim Mahmud ibn Umar ibn Ahmad, known as "al-Zamakhshari". He is considered one of the most prominent scholars of rhetoric and literature in the Abbasid era.

     He was the imam of grammarians and the preacher of narration in his time, and is regarded as the master of rhetoricians and exegetes. He authored this valuable dictionary around the year 528 AH.

     This book is considered one of the most prominent ancient linguistic dictionaries that focus on the study of Arabic words and their rhetoric. It is also seen as a new direction in explaining the speech of Arabs and understanding the verses of the Book of God. It combined benefit and pleasure at the same time, facilitating the difficult and removing ambiguity from many words by explaining them rhetorically. Additionally, its moderate size and the rhetoric contained between its covers gave it rapid spread and acceptance. Therefore, this book is considered an important reference for understanding, analyzing, and effectively employing rhetoric in texts.

     In "Asas al-Balagha," the author reviews linguistic and literary concepts and presents a comprehensive classification of linguistic metaphors, literary merits, and eloquent expressions. The book also includes an in-depth elaboration of various words and linguistic terms, clarifying their different uses and forms.

     The author's method of presenting the book is to explain the word in Arabic, interspersing the explanation with hadiths, Arabic poetry, and proverbs, then mentioning the metaphorical uses of the explained word.

            Therefore, the dictionary "Asas al-Balagha" is considered a valuable source for study and reference in the science of the Arabic language and rhetoric, contributing to developing the linguistic skills of readers and expanding their horizons in the field of rhetoric and expression. The value of the book lies in al-Zamakhshari's clear and simplified style in presenting concepts and examples. The book also provides in-depth analyses and interpretations of words and rhetorical tools, helping readers understand and use them correctly and creatively.