A Semantic Study of the Term "Patience" in Nahj ol-Balāghah

Semantics is a new method to study and explain the concept behind terms and discover new meanings. In semantics, a new aspect of conceptual and lexical studies and semantic networks is presented. Using analytical analysis of semantics, the present study aims to delve deep into the meaning of the term patience in Nahj ol-Balāghah and to specify its main meaning/meanings through juxtaposing this term with other synonyms or antonyms in the context. By the semantic analysis of the term patience in Nahj ol-Balāghahmore than a descriptive and definitional concept is presented and it is mentioned that patience is the main pillar of faith. This concept in Nahj ol-Balāghah is put against the concept of (Jaza') impatience. The results showed that the words of Imām 'Ali (AS) about patience in Nahj ol-Balāghah consist of wise and meaningful layers. The main purpose of the present study is to deal with a comprehensive and integrative outlook on this issue and it seeks to explain the features of pious people in the Qur'an and Nahj ol-Balāghah by analyzing the term patience as well as its collocations, synonyms, and antonyms.