Quran, Culture And Civilization

Quran, Culture And Civilization

Semantic Differences among Ahl al-Kitāb, alladhīna ūtū al-kitāb, and alladhīna ātaynāhum al-kitāb in the Qur’an:A Semantic Inquiry and Chronological Analysis of Revelation

Authors
Elham Aghadoosti 1
Mohammadreza Sotoudehnia 2
1 PhD Graduate in Qur’anic and Ḥadīth Sciences, Faculty of Theology and ʿAhl al-Bayt Studies, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
2 Associate Professor of Qur’anic and Ḥadīth Sciences, Faculty of Theology and ʿAhl al-Bayt Studies, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.
10.22034/jksl.2025.513676.1450
Abstract
In the Qur’an, the People of the Book are addressed through several expressions-alladhīna ūtū al-kitāb, Ahl al-Kitāb, and alladhīna ātaynāhum al-kitāb. Identifying the semantic distinctions among these terms, which may appear synonymous at first glance, constitutes the main question of this study. Using a descriptive-analytical method, and examining the semantic components and chronological usage of the expressions across Makkan and Madinan revelation, the study analyzes their nuanced differences. The findings indicate that alladhīna ātaynāhum al-kitāb refers to an elevated group of learned members of the People of the Book-primarily present in Makkah-who affirmed the prophethood of Muḥammad (ṣ) and believed in the Qur’an. In contrast, alladhīna ūtū al-kitāb, occurring predominantly in Madinan verses, designates a group of corrupt scholars and elites who, despite knowing the truth of Islam, concealed it. This is supported by their frequent association with terms such as knowledge, recognition, covenant, clear proof, and concealment. Ahl al-Kitāb, meanwhile, encompasses both groups in addition to the general population of the People of the Book-believers and disbelievers alike-who, according to the Qur’an, followed their religious authorities. This group also appears extensively in Madinan contexts.
Keywords
Ahl al-Kitāb
alladhīna ūtū al-kitāb
alladhīna ātaynāhum al-kitāb
Qur&‌‌rsquo
an
semantics

Subjects

The Holy Quran.
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Quran, Culture And Civilization
Volume 6, Issue 4 - Serial Number 22
Autumn 2025
Pages 127-149

  • Receive Date 14 April 2025
  • Revise Date 05 May 2025
  • Accept Date 12 May 2025
  • Publish Date 22 December 2025