The Issue of Succession of Letters

Abstract

This study is an examination of the issue of the succession of letters. It begins with a brief introductory explanation of the original meanings of Arabic lexis, especially the prepositions, and their occasional interchangeable use. In order to explain the relationship between the lexis and their meanings, the researcher has discussed two forms of the syntactic maxims. The first is concerned with a correspondence between the meaning and lexis, and the second is concerned with the fact that truth is the origin of speech. This is followed by an explanation of the expressions that are repeatedly used in the study, which are Interpretation, Implication, Substitution, Succession, Tasaqub (similarity of two words in structure due to their similarity in meaning), and Ta’awur (difference in two words in structures due to their similarity in meaning). The researcher pointed out that scholars fall into three groups with regard to their views of Substitution. The first group maintains that letters preserve their original meanings and can never be separated from them–in classical Arabic–except through Implication or correct Interpretation, which are sought to verify the text. The second group is the majority of scholars from the Kufi School, who maintain that Substitution is applicable to letters in standard Arabic. The third group of scholars sees that Succession of letters should neither be used excessively nor stopped totally; rather it should be first referred to Implication or Interpretation, and if they do not help, Substitution is to be adopted. After discussing each group's evidence on select texts and examples, the researcher has arrived at the conclusion that the third group is more flexible, and should be followed, due to its flexibility and preservation of the Arabic language’s practicality.