Nahjul-Balāgha

It seems that a great number of abstract religious concepts in Islamic texts are realized, both conceptually and linguistically, through cognitive strategies like metaphor and metonymy. This article tries to study the concept of death in the Holy Qurۥān, and Nahjul-Balāgha, the main Islamic Texts, to see how this (relatively) abstract concept is conceptualized in mind? Moreover, what component (s) of the recognized source concepts is (are) mapped onto the concept of death? The analysis of linguistic expressions about death shows that death is realized both metonymically and metaphorically in these two texts. There are structural, orientational and ontological metaphors in which death is the target domain of conceptualization, of which personification is more influential and specific than others. In all recognized metaphors, the death target is understood through different, but homogeneous, source concepts. The common component of nearly all these sources which is mapped on and highlighted is death power. Death has control over human and nobody can run away from it.

This study explores the conceptual metaphor of GOVERNMENT AS A CAMEL as presented in Nahjul-Balagha, a seminal work of literature attributed to Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib. Utilizing the framework of cognitive linguistics, specifically the theory of conceptual metaphors, the research examines how the metaphor encapsulates complex ideas related to governance, leadership, and social responsibility. An attempt is made to answer the question: What implications can the semantic domain of "camel" have for the semantic domain of "government"? By analyzing key passages from Nahjul-Balagha, this article infers several conceptual mappings such as the teleological approach to governance, the rebellious nature of power and the necessity of confronting abuse of power, the competence of the leader, meritocracy in offices, etc. The findings suggest that this metaphor not only reflects Imam Ali's views on the hardships and responsibilities of leadership but also provides a lens through which modern readers can understand the intricate relationship between rulers and their communities. Ultimately, the study aims to highlight the relevance of this metaphor in contemporary discussions on governance, emphasizing the continued significance of Imam Ali's insights in addressing current political challenges.