The interpretation of Qur’anic verses that appear to attribute corporeal features to God has long been among the most challenging exegetical issues. One notable example is: “On the Day when the shin shall be uncovered and they will be called to prostrate, but they will not be able” (Q 68:42). The term sāq in this verse has been the subject of extensive debate and diverse interpretations. Employing a descriptive–analytical approach and library-based sources, this study explores the semantic evolution of the expression in both Sunni and Shi‘i exegesis across the early and modern periods. It addresses three main questions: What meanings of sāq were proposed in each period? Which factors contributed to the emergence of new readings in modern times? And can these transformations be explained through the Mann–Kendall statistical test?. Findings show that in the early period, affirmatory and eschatological readings predominated. In contrast, the modern era, influenced by growing intellectual and social needs, witnessed a wider range of allegorical interpretations, including notions such as “essence and reality,” “divine light,” and even “the human shin.” In Shi‘i exegesis particularly, theological, philosophical, and social contexts played a decisive role in shaping such meanings. Furthermore, modern exegetes sought to connect revelatory concepts with contemporary human concerns by employing rational, scientific, and thematic approaches. Finally, the Mann–Kendall test was applied to assess historical trends. Results revealed no statistically significant pattern across the periods, which may be due to discursive fluctuations, cyclical returns to traditional views, and the availability of sources.