واکاوی مؤلفه های معنایی واژه «مدارا» در کلیله ودمنه بهرام شاهی: یک تحلیل هم زمانی (مقاله علمی وزارت علوم)
درجه علمی: نشریه علمی (وزارت علوم)
آرشیو
چکیده
واژگان در هر مقطع زمانی معمولاً دارای چند مؤلفه معنایی خاصی هستند که بدان در لغت نامه ها کمتر توجه شده است. این پژوهش با هدف شناسایی و تحلیل مؤلفه های معنایی واژه "مدارا" در متن کهن کلیله ودمنه بهرام شاهی (ترجمه نصرالله منشی) و با بهره گیری از روش تحلیل مؤلفه ای انجام شده است. در این راستا، پس از بررسی معانی لغوی واژه در فرهنگ های معتبر، کاربرد "مدارا" در زنجیره های همنشینی مختلف درون متن اصلی به دقت تحلیل و مؤلفه های معنایی آن استخراج گردید. یافته ها نشان می دهد که "مدارا" در کلیله ودمنه فراتر از معنای ساده بردباری یا مهربانی به عنوان یک راهبرد پیچیده، هدفمند و چندوجهی برای پیشبرد اهداف، مدیریت تعاملات و تضمین بقا در شرایط گوناگون به تصویر کشیده شده است. مؤلفه های معنایی مشخصی از جمله [+رفتار ظاهری]، [+مهربانانه]، [+ابزاری]، [+مصلحت آمیز]، [+زیرکانه]، [+انعطاف پذیر] و [-صادقانه]، در کاربردهای مختلف این واژه در این اثر تکرار می شوند. این تحلیل لزوم توجه به ظرایف معنایی واژگان در متون کلاسیک و محدودیت های فرهنگ های لغت در بازنمایی کامل این ظرایف را آشکار می سازد.An Exploration of the Semantic Components of the Word ‘مدارا’ (Modārā) in the Bahramshahi Kalila wa Dimna: A Synchronic Analysis
Words within any specific historical period often possess nuanced semantic components that standard dictionaries frequently overlook. This research aims to identify and meticulously analyze these semantic components for the term 'Modārā' (مدارا) as it appears in Nasrullah Monshi's Bahramshahi translation of Kalila wa Dimna , employing the method of componential analysis. Initially, lexical definitions from reputable dictionaries were examined. Subsequently, the usage of 'Modārā' within various syntagmatic chains throughout the original text was meticulously analyzed to extract its constituent semantic components. The findings reveal that 'Modārā' in Kalila wa Dimna transcends mere tolerance or kindness; rather, it is depicted as a complex, purposeful, and multifaceted strategy for achieving objectives, managing interpersonal interactions, and ensuring survival across diverse circumstances. Specific semantic components, consistently recurring across the various textual applications of this word, include [+Apparent Behavior], [+Kind], [+Instrumental], [+Expedient], [+Cunning], [+Flexible], and [-Sincere]. This analysis underscores the critical necessity of considering the intricate semantic nuances of words in classical texts and highlights the inherent limitations of general dictionaries in fully representing such subtleties. Introduction Nasrullah Monshi's Bahramshahi translation of Kalila wa Dimna stands as a recognized masterpiece of Persian prose, celebrated for its rich repository of practical wisdom, ethical counsel, and intricate linguistic subtleties. A profound understanding of this layered work necessitates a precise analysis of its key vocabulary, as these terms often carry significant semantic and cultural weight. Among such terms, the word ‘مدارا’ ( Modārā) is a frequently employed, multifaceted expression that plays a pivotal role across numerous contexts within the book. Given its inherent conceptual complexity and its historical-political significance, relying solely on the general definitions provided by standard dictionaries proves insufficient for grasping its precise meaning within the distinctive worldview presented in Kalila wa Dimna . Dictionaries, by their very nature, frequently fall short of fully representing the nuanced semantics of words, particularly as they function within classical texts. Consequently, this research employs rigorous linguistic approaches, specifically "synchronic semantics" and the method of "componential analysis," to meticulously explore the hidden dimensions and constituent semantic components of 'Modārā' within this ancient text. The primary objective is to identify the word's consistent and recurring semantic components and, based on its textual applications, to construct a comprehensive componential definition. This endeavor ultimately aims to highlight the disparity between the word's meaning in Kalila wa Dimna and its portrayal in conventional lexicographical definitions. Literature Review Componential analysis, a method deeply rooted in structural semantics, has been extensively applied in diverse linguistic studies. Notably, its utility has been demonstrated in the analysis of significant religious texts in Arabic, such as the Qur'an and Nahj al-Balagha . In the realm of Persian linguistics, one relevant study has conducted a componential analysis of the word "Shādmānegī" (joy) within Kalila wa Dimna . Additionally, another scholarly work has explored the concept of "tolerance and forbearance" in the Divan of Hafez , albeit employing Fairclough's model of discourse analysis, which represents a distinct methodological approach from the present research. Despite these valuable contributions, a discernible and significant research gap persists within the field of Persian language studies. Specifically, there is a lack of comprehensive componential analysis dedicated to the word 'Modārā' within Nasrullah Monshi's Bahramshahi Kalila wa Dimna . This paper directly addresses this lacuna by focusing on the specific linguistic context of the aforementioned work and systematically applying componential analysis. The objective is to provide a more precise and scholarly understanding of this pivotal concept. Methodology This research employs a descriptive-analytical method, specifically utilizing "componential analysis" to investigate the synchronic semantic components of the word 'Modārā' as it functions within Nasrullah Monshi's Bahramshahi Kalila wa Dimna . Within this analytical framework, a word's meaning is systematically decomposed into its constituent semantic features. To achieve this, all eleven instances where the word 'Modārā' appears in the text were meticulously extracted. Subsequently, through a detailed examination of each instance within its specific syntagmatic chain and its semantic relationships with collocating words, the prominent semantic components inherent in each application were precisely identified. This analysis was not predicated solely on dictionary definitions; rather, the semantic components were derived by scrutinizing the syntagmatic chains within the original text. These findings were further cross-verified with other contemporary texts from a similar period to ensure contextual accuracy. Each identified component, representing a minimal unit of meaning, was then formally defined using the binary markers ‘+’ (indicating the presence of the feature) or ‘−’ (indicating the absence of the feature). Discussion and Findings An examination of the term 'Modārā' in authoritative Persian and Arabic dictionaries reveals notable ambiguity and even outright contradiction in its lexical definitions. While esteemed sources such as Dehkhoda, Moin, and Anvari predominantly associate it with positive concepts like affability, forbearance, and gentleness, other lexicographers, including Nafisi, also list antithetical meanings such as "hypocrisy and deceit." This semantic duality is further echoed in the word's Arabic etymology, where a clear distinction is drawn between the hamzated form, al-mudāra’ah (implying repelling or warding off), and the non-hamzated form, al-mudārāh (implying gentleness towards people). This inherent semantic breadth explicitly exposes the limitations of relying solely on dictionaries and underscores the critical necessity of in-depth textual analysis. The componential analysis of 'Modārā' within Kalila wa Dimna demonstrates that the word consistently signifies a complex, purposeful, and pragmatic strategy, rather than a simple ethical virtue. Modārā as a Military Strategy: In direct contrast to "war and coercion" ( jang va mokābareh ), "gentleness and Modārā" ( rifq va Modārā ) are presented as more effective instruments for "vanquishing" an adversary. Its collocation with "intellect" ( kherad ) as opposed to "physical strength" ( mardi ) further emphasizes its cunning, instrumental, and insincere facets when employed to debilitate a foe. Modārā as a Defensive Tactic: Within the narrative of the ape and the turtle, the ape strategically employs "gentleness and Modārā" as a precautionary and defensive maneuver. This is done to safeguard his life and to carefully assess the impending danger, particularly when he develops suspicion towards his companion. This behavior, while outwardly kind, is intrinsically motivated by suspicion and calculated self-interest. Modārā as a Philosophy of Life: For the "wise man" ( āqel ), Modārā functions as a fundamental principle for ensuring survival and achieving success. This principle encompasses flexibility (metaphorically described as "turning the fur-coat towards the rain"), necessitating variable conduct with both allies and adversaries based on strategic "expediency" ( maslahat ) rather than genuine sincerity, and demanding astute, intelligent planning. This approach distinctly reflects the pragmatic worldview pervasive throughout the work. Modārā as a Tool of Deception: In the renowned story of Borzuyeh, he skillfully utilizes "gentleness and Modārā" as a comprehensive strategy to advance his clandestine mission. By "feigning" a quest for knowledge, deliberately pretending ignorance, and cultivating instrumental relationships, he deploys Modārā for the purposes of expedient deception and intelligence gathering. Modārā in Power Dynamics: Within the hierarchical structure of the royal court, Modārā is depicted as an indispensable requisite for attaining success. This involves enduring hardships, strategically suppressing anger with "forbearance" ( helm ), and adeptly managing "incidents" ( havādes ) with a combination of cunning and flexibility to ultimately achieve one's desired "goal" ( morād ). Modārā from a Position of Weakness: When confronted by a powerful enemy, "humility" ( tavāzo' ) and "gentleness" ( talattof ) emerge as crucial tools for averting immediate danger. The comparison of this behavior to a "dry plant" that gracefully bends in a strong wind effectively highlights the component of flexible adaptation as a means of survival. Conclusion The comprehensive analysis of 'Modārā' as it is applied throughout Kalila wa Dimna unequivocally demonstrates that the word consistently embodies a distinct set of recurring semantic components. These identified components include: [+Behavior], [+Kind (Apparent)], [+Instrumental], [+Expedient], [+Cunning], [+Flexible], [-Sincere], [+Purposeful (to gain benefit)], [+Based on Calculation (not emotion)], and [+Tactical/Strategic]. Building upon these findings, 'Modārā' in Kalila wa Dimna can be precisely defined as: an outwardly kind and gentle behavior that is inherently instrumental, expedient, cunning, and flexible, adopted strategically based on rational calculations to achieve a specific benefit (such as survival, averting danger, or acquiring power), and not necessarily accompanied by genuine inner sincerity. Therefore, 'Modārā' in this significant work transcends the conventional understanding of mere forbearance or simple gentleness. Instead, it represents a complex and multifaceted strategy for effectively advancing objectives, skillfully managing interactions, and ensuring survival within a world characterized by challenges and intense competition. This detailed analysis not only reveals the inherent limitations of general dictionaries in fully capturing the semantic nuances of words within specific historical and literary contexts but also profoundly emphasizes the critical necessity of applying precise semantic methodologies to the scholarly investigation of classical texts. For future research, it is strongly suggested that a similar componential analysis of this word be undertaken in other classical Persian texts, and that a diachronic study of its semantic evolution across different periods be pursued.
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