Ambiguity in the adverbial clause's subject and its impact on the diversity of (Qur'an) interpretations

Abstract

In this article, we seek to reveal one of the ways in which interpretation varies; where the researcher noted the multiplicity of interpretations of some (Qur’anic) verses, whenever they include a word, a sentence, or a clause on the accusative case as a circumstantial adverb (حال /Haal or ḥāl), due to the ambiguity in determining the subject of the adverbial clause (to be called henceforth Sahibul hâl) within the Qur’anic verse. Grammarians did not agree on Sahibul hâl. And interpreters of The Qur’an followed them. So, their opinions varied. Accordingly, this research investigates two topics: the first is a theoretical framework, tracing the origin, which defines the circumstantial adverb, its types, rules, conditions, and generic verbs which render the accusative cases, as well as the definition of Sahibul Hâl and its aspects. The second topic deals with some verses of the Noble Qur’an that include circumstantial adverbs. Here, grammarians diverged in assigning its Sahibul Hâl, finding out its causes, and explaining its impact on the diversity of interpretations.