Simile, metonymy, metaphor, and allusion are important rhetorical tools used in religious texts, especially the Holy Qur'an, to clarify and convey doctrinal concepts. These rhetorical devices assist in presenting complex and abstract doctrinal concepts in a tangible and understandable manner for audiences. Simile, by establishing a similarity between abstract concepts and tangible entities, leads to a better understanding of religious concepts and evokes emotional and motivational impact. Metonymy, through the use of words with implicit meanings, creates vivid imagery and deep meanings for the audience. Metaphor, particularly in expressing spiritual states, divine support, and divine punishment, is used to represent abstract concepts in a more visual and comprehensible form. Allusion also plays an indirect and effective role in conveying doctrinal concepts, such as power and authority, guidance and mission, and divine punishment. In summary, these rhetorical devices contribute to enhancing the audience’s understanding of religious concepts, increasing the impact and reasoning of doctrinal arguments, and creating a spiritual and emotional connection with the audience.
Raisi et al. (Wed,) studied this question.