Tafsir: Semantic Structure of the Surahs of the Quran

Course Description

This flagship course provides a systematic analysis of all 114 Surahs of the Holy Quran, moving beyond atomistic interpretation toward a holistic, structural understanding. Students will explore the Interpretive Semantic Structure — a pioneering methodology developed by Dr Safavi — to uncover the organic unity and purposeful arrangement of Divine speech.

Unlike traditional linear readings, this course employs Structural Hermeneutics, Isotopy Analysis, and Symmetrical (Ring) Composition to reveal the Quran as a geometrically perfect, multi-dimensional text. Starting from Surah Al-Fatiha, students will systematically work through all 114 Surahs over 300–350 academic hours.

Learning Objectives

• Master the Symmetrical Structure (Ring Composition) of the Surahs
• Identify Isotopes — lexical, thematic, and mystical — that create textual cohesion
• Analyse the artistic imagery and storytelling techniques within the sacred text
• Transition from linear reading to a multi-dimensional geometric reading of the Quran

Syllabus — The Four-Chapter Model

• Session 1 — Approach & Methodology: Schools of Interpretation, the paradigm shift to Interpretive Semantic Structure, Structuralism in modern Quranic studies
• Chapter I — Generalities & Divine Attributes: Central axis of each Surah, Asma Allah al-Husna, Jurisprudence verses and their structural roles
• Chapter II — Architecture of the Word: Paragraph division into semantic blocks, structural diagrams (Linear vs. Symmetrical), connection analysis between symmetrical sections
• Chapter III — Isotopy & Cohesion: Lexical, thematic, narrative & discursive isotopes; binary opposites; Quranic Mysticism ('Irfan); rhetorical patterns
• Chapter IV — Narrative & Artistic Imagery: Quranic storytelling techniques, sensory language, metaphysical imagery

Time Allocation by Surah Category

Category	Representative Surahs	Hours/Surah	Total
The Long Poles	Al-Baqarah, Al-Imran, An-Nisa…	12–15 hrs	~70 Hours
Mid-Length Surahs	Yusuf, Ra'd, Ibrahim, Maryam…	4–6 hrs	~160 Hours
Short/Meccan Surahs	Al-Fatiha, Al-Ikhlas…	1–2 hrs	~80 Hours
Synthesis/Review	Comprehensive Structural Overview	—	~330 Hours

Bibliography & Key Texts

• Safavi, S.S. — Interpretation of the Semantic Structure of the Quranic Surahs (SalmanAzadeh Publications)
• Safavi, S.S. — The Structure of Rumi's Mathnawi (London Academy of Iranian Studies)
• Safavi, S.S. — Mulla Sadra: Life and Philosophy (London Academy of Iranian Studies)
• Safavi, S.S. — Allah in the Quran: Golden Verses on Divine Unity (London Academy of Iranian Studies)
• Safavi, S.S. — Methodology of Hermeneutic Semantic Structuralism (SalmanAzadeh Publications)