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:
- 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)
Particles used: Hamza (أ), hal (هل), kayfa (كيف), ayna (أين), mata (متى), man (من) — each with its own context and nuance.
Rhetoric: The rhetorical question is more impactful than outright negation, as it involves the addressee in reaching the conclusion, making it more deeply retained.
Question: What is the rhetorical question (istifham inkari)? Name its three types with a Quranic example each.
Answer: A question used to deny/rebuke, not to seek information. Types: rebuking (2:44), affirmative (95:8), wonder/astonishment (2:28).