Definition of the equalization style:Informing that two different things carry the same ruling for the addressee — one of the strongest styles of despair and affirmation in Quranic rhetoric.
The verse:
"Indeed, those who disbelieve — it is equal upon them whether you warned them or did not warn them — they will not believe." (2:6)
Rhetorical analysis:
- "It is equal upon them" — the subject, with the interrogative clause as predicate (whether you warned them or did not)
- Placing warning and its absence on the same scale — conveying that neither will change the outcome
- "They will not believe" — an independent sentence confirming the final ruling
Rhetorical purpose:
Not a nihilistic declaration but a consolation to the Prophet — meaning: do not grieve, the shortcoming is not from you. This shows that rhetorical equalization is used to ward off blame, not to declare absolute despair.
Other examples:
"It is equal to us whether we are distressed or patient — there is no escape for us." (14:21) — the people of Hell equalize distress and patience because neither will avail.
Question: What is the rhetorical purpose of equalization in "it is equal whether you warned them"? Is it despair or consolation?
Answer: Consolation to the Prophet: the shortcoming is not from you. Equalization wards off blame rather than declaring absolute despair — even though its image evokes despair.