The Discursive Path of the Story of Prophet Ibrahim - Peace Be Upon Him – Within the Framework of the Theory of Paths and Goals

Abstract

This research aims to present the Quranic verses containing the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him) from a pragmatic perspective by applying the Paths and Goals Theory to these verses. Although this theory is a linguistic approach to discourse analysis, it effectively accommodates the analysis of various types of linguistic discourses and religious texts. To apply this theory to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), the analysis fundamentally requires identifying the 'discourse path' (al-maslak) first. Accordingly, the discourse within these Quranic texts is treated as an intentional (directed) act due to its intrinsic connection with intentions (al-maqasid), purposes (al-aghrad), and goals (al-ghayat). Furthermore, it constitutes a willful act linked directly to the speaker's volition and intent in storytelling, as it intrinsically aims at communication, impact, persuasion, and education.