Etymological Approach to the Quranic term “darab”

The root of “daraba” which has been used 58 times in the Holy Quran is one of the most complex words in the Arabic language and according to the oldest Arabic lexicons is used for all deeds. One of the issues that can help to understand this word correctly, comprehensively and systematically is etymological study. For this purpose, using the method of etymology, the meanings of ‘daraba’ is found and classified from the earliest meanings, in Afro-Asian and Sami languages. Next, according to this semantic classification, the meanings of “daraba” are examined and categorized in different verses of Quran. It is shown that the Quranic applications of “daraba” are all formulated under the first category of semantics derived from etymology namely tie/mix/wrap. Another root; burning, is not practically used in Quran. Commentators' opinions on the meaning of “daraba” are also reviewed based on etymological results. It is shown that some meanings of “daraba” considered in a range of interpretations are not supported by theological evidences. Foe example, the meaning of beating was not found in the etimological studies and for “idribuhunna” in verse34 of Al-Nasa, based on the etymological results, the meaning of turning over / going is suggested.