The Role of Ahmed Fâris al-Shidyâq in arabic lexicography

This thesis provides a comprehensive analysis of the innovative contributions of Ahmad Fâris al-Shidyâq, one of the prominent Arab writers and linguists of the 19th century, to Arabic lexicography. Al-Shidyâq criticized the errors and shortcomings of classical dictionaries, laying the foundation for a more comprehensive, systematic, and modern approach to lexicography. In this context, his works, particularly al-Jâsûs ʿala al-Qâmûs and Sirr al-Layâl, present critiques that challenge the lexicographical norms of the time and offer significant ideas that paved the way for modern lexicography. The thesis examines al-Shidyâq's innovative approaches to word derivation, term formation, and the organization of dictionary entries in detail. His critiques not only highlighted the deficiencies of existing lexicographical practices but also served as a basis for the development of a new methods. Through comparisons with classical dictionaries, the study emphasizes the originality and innovative nature of al-Shidyâq's contributions. Moreover, the thesis explores the long-term impact of al-Shidyâq's critiques on Arabic linguistics from a historical perspective. By addressing the inadequacies of classical dictionaries, al-Shidyâq advocated for the necessity of a modern and systematic lexicographical approach to achieve a more accurate understanding of the Arabic language. The study evaluates how al-Shidyâq's critiques and methods influenced both his contemporaries and modern Arabic lexicographical and linguistic studies. The research findings reveal that al-Shidyâq not only critiqued classical dictionaries but also significantly contributed to the advancement of Arabic linguistics and modern lexicography. His critical perspective and innovative methodology are recognized as important steps toward achieving a more accurate and systematic understanding of the Arabic language.