A Study of the Quranic term "Waykaanna"

One of the Quranic expressions giving rise to numerous syntactic and exegetical discussions for long is that of "waykaannallaha" and "waykaannahu" in Sura al-kaṣaṣ، Verse 82. The present article surveys the views of grammarians and exegetes concerning this expression. The study opens with quotations of experts in syntax and exegesis of first Islamic centuries along with their analysis، and closes with a view supported by certain evidence along with the requirements of Quranic eloquence in this regard. Concerning the structure of this expression، majority of researchers in syntax have adopted Sybawaih's view considering it a compound formed of "way" and "kaanna" as the best view. There is no difference today among experts in syntax on the fact that "way" has a distinct meaning and position from "kaanna" in the compound "waykaanna". It is also clear that "way" is an exclamation pronounced outomatically when facing and unexpected affair. However، there is disagreement on whether by "Kaanna" is meant likeness and simile or emphasis، or even something else. The outcome of our discussion is that this compound indicates a composition of surmise and surprise along with a sense of coming upon unawares and being awakened after being under illusions. This view is supported by the syntactic and linguistic analysis of the compound as it is strengthened by the context of the story of the perishing of ḳārūn.