(Camels) in the Constructed Examples of Grammarians: A Study of the Example in the Grammatical craft and its Social Impact

Abstract

The grammarians’ use of the term “camels” (al-ibil) and its gender-specific names (nāqah, baʿīr, and jamal) in their examples across various grammatical contexts reflects different social situations. As examples represent the practical application of grammatical theorization and naming the year 2024 as the “Year of the Camel” highlights its significance in Arab culture and serves as a motivation to advance research in this field                                     

     The study analyzes and examines grammatical examples involving camels, distinguishing those that conform to the rules from those that deviate. It also clarifies their impact on the art of grammar, how effectively they served the purpose for which they were created or the extent to which they fulfill their intended purpose, and how they aided grammarians in clarifying and simplifying rules, making them more accessible to the learners while also reflecting their social life. The examples thus function as a unique dual-purpose tool: one side representing grammatical rules, and the other serving as a reflection of society and the era in which they were crafted.                                 

    One of the most notable findings is the grammarians’ attention to invoking the term “camels” in many grammatical contexts, thereby linking grammatical rules to social life through examples and employing this connection effectively in grammatical studies. This resulted in a vivid and clear image for the learner, making the examples dynamic and far from being dry or symbolic. It also demonstrated the enduring relevance of examples involving “camels” and their familiarity to modern society, without the need for modification.