Research on the Evolution Concept of Words in the Quran as Compared with Pre-Islamic Culture.(Case Study: Holy words)

The concept of ‘holy’ is one of the most important and interesting concepts in Arabic culture, especially in the time before and after the advent of Islam. Also, its reiteration in the Quran indicates its importance. The concept of ‘holy’ in the pre-Islamic era and after the revelation of the Quran has witnessed a sea-change. In this paper, the evolution of the meaning of ‘holy’ in the Quran, as compared to the era before the revelation of the Quran is investigated. By analyzing the culture of ignorance and the uses of ‘holy’ in the pre-Islamic era, we have found that prior to the revelation of the Quran ‘holy’ meant family nobility, high dignity in positions and assignment, generosity, munificence, etc. The explanation of this ethical concept in the verses indicates that God has exalted the meaning of this word in the Quran by making human dignity in harmony with piety.