Favours of the Gracious God — Page 158
158 Such is Arabic and this excellence has been made unique to it: this is that language which has been granted a perfect system of root-words by Allah, and its scope of application has been made equal to all the possible needs of expression. That is why the Arabic language consists of words that comprise such subtlety of meaning that they paint a perfect and complete picture of what is in the mind, like an artist. If we want to write a story in Arabic, or narrate an anecdote or incident, or write a book on theology, we are not reliant upon formulating a new word which is not based on a root word as if our language is wandering aimlessly. Instead, the perfect system of Arabic helps us in every field, and we find its root words like perfect garments for the expression of meaning and mysteries, and we do not find it mute in any context. This is because its system is complete, it has an exalted status and possesses a vast amount of materials; its root words are numerous, it has balance and rectitude. Its derivatives are extensive. Its order and arrangement is consistent, and it fulfils expectations. The law of nature and the root words of this language proceed hand in hand—like a pair of oxen pulling a plough, or like two opposite walls of a courtyard. Perceive then, like those possessed with insight.