The Uses of the Word "Wayl" (Woe) in the Holy Quran: An Analytical Study

Abstract

This study aims to explore the word "Wayl" (woe) and its uses in the Holy Quran. The term carries multiple meanings and evokes profound psychological resonance. The Quran employs it in alignment with its usage in the Arabic language, sometimes conveying reproach, other times warning, and occasionally supplication in specific contexts, among other meanings as elaborated in the study. The study comprises an introduction, three sections, and a conclusion. The introduction highlights the significance of the topic, reasons for its selection, previous studies, research methodology, and structure, along with the linguistic and terminological definition of "Wayl" (woe). Section one examines the reasons for the occurrence of the word "Wayl" in the Quran. Section two discusses the deservingness of "Wayl" in this world.  Section three addresses its deservingness in the hereafter. Utilizing inductive and analytical approach, the key findings indicate that the most frequent reasons for the term’s occurrence in the Quran are disbelief, polytheism, denial of resurrection, and major or minor sins as grounds for deserving Wayl". The study recommends conducting a comparative analysis of the reasons for the term’s usage across various exegetical works.