Intermediate
Rhetoric
Rhetorical Question (Istifham Inkari)
Definition: A question not intended to seek information, but to deny or rebuke — negating an act's occurrence or correctness. It is one of the Quran's most powerful rhetorical devices.
Types:
Rhetoric: The rhetorical question is more impactful than outright negation, as it involves the addressee in reaching the conclusion, making it more deeply retained.
Types:
- Rebuking (Tawbihi): Censuring the addressee for a prior act — "Do you command people to righteousness while forgetting yourselves?" (2:44)
- Affirmative (Taqriri): Confirming and establishing a truth — "Is not Allah the most just of judges?" (95:8) — i.e., yes, He is
- Wonder (Ta'ajjubi): Evoking astonishment — "How can you disbelieve in Allah when you were lifeless and He gave you life?" (2:28)
Rhetoric: The rhetorical question is more impactful than outright negation, as it involves the addressee in reaching the conclusion, making it more deeply retained.
Source: Al-Zarkashi, Al-Burhan (2/330); Al-Jurjani, Dala'il al-I'jaz (p.131); Al-Jarim & Al-Amin, Al-Balagha al-Wadiha (p.212)
Test Yourself
What is the rhetorical question (istifham inkari)? Name its three types with a Quranic example each.
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