The interrogative style in the Qur'an:A study on the examples from sūrat al-Kahf and sūrat Maryam

This study investigates the concept of interrogation (istifhām) in Arabic within the framework of rhetorical sciences (balāghah), with particular reference to Sūrat al-Kahf and Sūrat Maryam. It first situates istifhām within the broader distinction between declarative (khabar) and performative (inshā') sentences, identifying it as a request-based performative (inshā' ṭalabī). The first chapter examines Arabic interrogative particles—such as hamzah, hal, man, mā, ayy, kam, kayfa, ayna, annā, ayyān, and matā—in terms of their grammatical forms, semantic values, and contextual functions. Drawing on Qur'anic examples, the study demonstrates that these particles are not confined to literal questioning but frequently convey rhetorical meanings including reproach, denial, astonishment, affirmation, exhortation, and warning. In Sūrat al-Kahf and Sūrat Maryam, interrogative expressions function as pedagogical tools that stimulate reflection and spiritual awareness. The second chapter focuses on the secondary rhetorical meanings of istifhām, such as denial (inkār), negation (nafy), confirmation (taqrīr), warning (tahdhīr), amazement (taʿajjub), reproof (tawbīkh), blame (ʿitāb), and reminder (tadhkīr). Through detailed Qur'anic analysis, it shows how interrogative forms transcend information-seeking and serve as persuasive and admonitory devices. The study concludes that istifhām in the Qur'an is a complex rhetorical strategy that deepens meaning, provokes thought, and enhances emotional impact, reflecting the expressive and intellectual richness of Arabic.