What is the relationship between language and truth in the Quran?

In the Holy Quran, the relationship between language and truth is a fundamental and profound connection, emphasized from the very beginning of its revelation. The Quran introduces itself as 'Kalamullah' (the Word of Allah); that is, the direct and unmediated speech of God, revealed through Gabriel to the heart of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This divine nature distinguishes the language of the Quran from any human discourse, endowing it with unparalleled sacredness and authority. Truth in the Quran is not merely an abstract or philosophical concept, but an absolute, divine, and existential reality rooted in the essence of God, 'Al-Haqq' (The Absolute Truth). The language of the Quran serves as the conduit for transmitting this sublime truth to humanity. One of the most prominent characteristics of the Quran's language is its clarity and explicitness. The Quran repeatedly describes itself as 'Mubeen' (clear and elucidating) and a 'Book of Guidance.' This clarity ensures that the message of truth reaches its recipient without ambiguity or distortion. The choice of the Arabic language for the Quran's revelation is also a crucial point in this relationship. God states in numerous verses that He has revealed the Quran in eloquent Arabic so that people may understand it and reflect upon it. The unparalleled eloquence (fasahah) and rhetoric (balaghah) of the Quranic Arabic are not merely literary beauties; they serve as a testament to its miraculous nature and divine origin. This linguistic miracle (I'jaz al-Balaghi) is such that no human can produce anything similar, serving as conclusive proof of its divine authenticity and absolute truthfulness. The language of the Quran expresses the realities of existence, the origin and return (to God), and the righteous way of life with unparalleled precision and subtlety. Every word and phrase in the Quran carries its specific meaning, and this linguistic precision prevents deviation in understanding the truth. The Quran refers to two categories of verses: 'Muhkamat' (clear and precise) and 'Mutashabihat' (allegorical or ambiguous). The Muhkamat verses are those whose meaning is clear and unambiguous, forming the foundation of the Book and the basis for understanding truth. These verses express fundamental truths of religion and law unequivocally. In contrast, the Mutashabihat verses are those whose meaning may seem complex or multifaceted at first glance. These verses often refer to unseen realities, divine attributes, or complex issues that may be difficult for human intellect to fully grasp. However, the existence of Mutashabihat verses does not imply a lack of clarity in truth; rather, they serve as a divine test for the believers and a demonstration of the limitations of human understanding of infinite divine truths. Indeed, a complete understanding of the truth in these verses requires reference to the Muhkamat verses and proper interpretation (ta'wil), which only those firmly rooted in knowledge possess. This linguistic structure reveals the depth and layers of truth in the Quran, teaching humanity to submit to absolute divine knowledge in certain matters. Language in the Quran is not merely a tool for conveying information; it is itself a means for enlightenment, awakening the human disposition (fitra), and bringing about transformation in individuals. The words, phrases, and even the rhythm and cadence of the Quran are designed to affect the listener's soul and guide them towards truth. The Quranic language not only expresses theoretical truths but also addresses practical and ethical truths, showing the path to true happiness. Moral injunctions and legal rulings in the Quran are expressed in clear, imperative language so that there is no ambiguity in the path of acting upon truth. Therefore, the relationship between language and truth in the Quran is an essential and inseparable one. Language is the vessel into which divine truth has been poured, making it accessible to human understanding. Any attempt to separate language from truth in the Quran leads to distortion and misunderstanding. The Quran, with its unparalleled language, serves as a guide for understanding the deepest existential and divine realities—a truth manifested in the body of Arabic words, inviting humanity to the straight and clear divine path. This language is not merely a carrier of the message; it is itself a living miracle and a clear proof of its own divine origin and truth.