Aesthetics in the Qur’ān a thematic study based on selected modern exegeses

Alrajaibi, Iman M. (2016). Aesthetics in the Qur’ān a thematic study based on selected modern exegeses. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis studies the notion of aesthetics from a Qurʼānic perspective by adopting the methodology of thematic exegesis with special reference to modern exegeses. The aim of adopting this specific exegetical genre is to construct a ‘unified’ understanding of what may be considered the Qurʼānic view of the notion of aesthetics.
This study finds that aesthetics in the Qurʼān is expressed using a number of terms, all of which have specific connotations. The study shows that the term ḥusn is the most significant term related to the notion of aesthetics. It also finds that aesthetics from a Qurʼānic perspective is an aspect of reality and it is deliberately incorporated into God’s creation. Knowledge of the Creator and other religious functions are the ultimate purposes of aesthetics from a Qur’ānic perspective. Perfection, pleasure and goodness are intrinsically linked to the Qurʼānic conception of aesthetics. Qurʼānic discourse refers to nature as the most rewarding source of aesthetic experience. Aesthetics from a Qurʼānic perspective is not merely related to physical domains; it is rather an ethical perspective. Qurʼānic teaching disseminates an understanding of aesthetics throughout all facets of ethical conduct. The concept of iḥsān has a crucial role in Qurʼānic discourse on the ethics of aesthetics. Aesthetics in the Qurʼānic conception is not always mentioned with positive implications; it also can have negative connotations.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):