Symbols are the words utilized in meanings other than their original meanings; and their meanings are abstract and intangible.
Signs are words used to express a tangible and sensible meaning other than their original meaning. Many symbols and signs such as the animate, inanimate, herbal, and abstract symbols are used in the Qur’ān. In this article, the writer has tried to interpret the animate symbols and signs according to the verses of the Qur’ān and the traditions of the Ahl al-Bayt and to study their meanings from the various viewpoints of the two major sects (of Shī‘a and Sunnī). A correct understanding of the ta‘wīl (esoteric interpretation) or tafsīr (exegesis) of a word would lead us to a better understanding of the Qur’ān and keep us secured from many of the errors. It is worth mentioning that cognition of the culture of various nations would highly contribute to understanding the symbols. For this reason, the writer has made use of the sources that have researched in this respect. There are about 100 symbols and signs in the Qur’ān, of which the writer has discussed only about the symbols that are animate and enjoy the blessing of life and living, including man, Satan, or animals.
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