An explanation of threat verses in their contexts: The case of Surah al-Baqarah

Threatening verses in the Quran assume different functions depending on the beliefs and attitudes of their addressees. In this study, which is specific to the Surah al-Baqarah, the addressees of the threatening verses: unbelievers, hypocrites, believers and threats against the prophets are examined under two headings of belief and practice, their contexts are examined and the identities of the addressees are examined. The research also reveals that the lack of sufficient reflection of the context in some Quranic translations overshadows the pedagogical and guiding dimensions of threatening verses. When the contexts of the threatening verses in question are ignored, this causes the message to be perceived from a one-dimensional perspective and to be understood only on a punitive basis. In particular, the preference for the literal translation method in translations can lead to the threatening verses being addressed only within a narrative framework centered on punishment and fear. Attention to the context of the threatening verses plays a fundamental role in ensuring the correct understanding of the messages of the Quran. In this context, it has been confirmed that both the internal context (siyak and sibak) and the historical context must be taken into account in order to grasp the holistic message of the Quran. Keywords: Tafsir, Translation, Surah al-Baqarah, Context, Threat.