An Investigation into the Meaning of (al-Ṣayf – Summer) in Surah Quraysh

Abstract

Classical and contemporary Arab linguists have devoted considerable attention to the semantic dimensions of words, given their direct impact on the accurate interpretation of the Qur’an, which constitutes the primary source of Islamic legislation. Any misapprehension of a Qur’anic term may lead to a deviation from its intended meaning. This article seeks to investigate the semantic scope of the term “ṣayf” (summer) as it appears in the verse: “For their covenants [secured] during the winter and summer journeys” (Qur’an 106:2). To ascertain the precise meaning intended by the term, reference was made to classical Arabic lexicons, Qur’anic exegetical works, and the historical timing of the Battle of Badr, given its relevance to the Quraysh caravan mentioned in the verse. The findings indicate that the term “ṣayf” does not align with the conventional modern understanding of “summer.” Rather, it reflects the meaning commonly held by the Arabs of that time — corresponding to what is now referred to part of spring, the entire summer, and part of autumn according to modern usage.