Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Department of Persian Language and Literature, Faculty of Literature, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
This study comparatively examines the metaphorical conceptualization of "Balā" (Affliction) in selected Persian and Arabic mystical texts. The main problem is identifying similarities and classifying the dimensions of variation in "Balā"'s conceptualization, alongside precisely describing the "semantic focus" of the metaphor in each tradition. The theoretical framework is Kövecses's (2005) Cognitive-Cultural Metaphor Theory, focusing on the interplay between universal concepts and cultural variation. The research employed a mixed-methods (quantitative-qualitative) approach, and the data were analyzed using content analysis and a qualitative approach to metaphor mapping analysis. Results indicate common source domains such as "CONTAINER," "LOAD," "FIRE," and "FOOD" exist for conceptualizing "Balā" in the reviewed texts of both languages. However, significant differences in cognitive-cultural preferences and metaphor elaborations are observed, which are classifiable into four distinct levels: 1) differences in metaphor frequency, 2) congruent and alternative conceptualization, 3) the scope of the target domain, and 4) variation in metaphorical mappings and entailments. Qualitative analysis of these dimensions shows that the semantic focus of "Balā" in the Arabic mystical tradition, with a high prominence and frequency of the "FORCE and MOTION" source domain, conceptualizes Balā as an inevitable encounter with a powerful Divine force, directed top-down. Conversely, the semantic focus of "Balā" in the Persian mystical tradition, with a prominence and frequency of the "FIRE and CONTAINER" source domain, conceptualizes Balā as an active experience for achieving perfection and spiritual ripeness along the path (Suluk).
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