Ibn Khaldun's Contributions to the Service of the Arabic Language and Its Literature

Abstract

This study examines the contributions of Ibn Khaldun to the service of the Arabic language and its literature through an analytical study of his linguistic and literary thought, particularly as presented in Al-Muqaddimah. The research highlights Ibn Khaldun's comprehensive vision of Arabic as the language of the Qur'an, the foundation of Islamic scholarship, and a vital element of cultural and civilizational identity. It explores his theory of linguistic competence (malakah), emphasizing that language acquisition is achieved through continuous exposure, practice, and interaction with eloquent speakers rather than through the memorization of grammatical rules alone. The study also investigates Ibn Khaldun's views on Arabic grammar, rhetoric, literary criticism, poetry, and the relationship between language and civilization (ʿumrān). It demonstrates how he linked linguistic development and literary creativity to social and cultural conditions, making him one of the earliest scholars to approach language and literature from a sociological perspective. Furthermore, the research discusses his criticism of excessive formalism in rhetoric, his balanced approach to grammar, and his emphasis on literary taste and stylistic excellence. The findings reveal that Ibn Khaldun's linguistic and literary theories anticipated several principles of modern linguistics, language acquisition, and literary criticism. His ideas continue to offer valuable insights for contemporary Arabic language studies and literary scholarship, confirming his enduring intellectual legacy in Islamic civilization.