An Integrative Semantic and Pragmatic Analysis of al-Saʿy in the Holy Quran

This study deals with the semantic and pragmatic aspects of the lexical item al-Saʿy (السعي) in the Holy Quran based on an integrative analytical approach. The root word of al-Saʿy in the Holy Quran has a meaning that is far more than its dictionary meaning, which is running or pacing. It is a strong reflection of human intentions and life choices. While past research has only looked at this word through old dictionaries or traditional commentaries, this study provides a qualitative analysis of two methods: a linguistic camera (Sinclair’s model, 1996) and a cognitive framework by Sperber & Wilsons’Ad Hoc Concept Model (2012). The data includes five selected Holy Quranic verses. The results reveal that in 80% of the investigated texts, the brain completely replaces physical locomotion with abstract spiritual accountability. The literal, physical meaning is strictly preserved only in Surah Taha to convey the immediate sensory shock and awe of a miracle.