Are these Nothing but Sorcerers? – A linguistic analysis of Q Ṭā-Hā 20:63 using intra-Qurʾānic parallels

Abstract The seemingly ungrammatical wording of Q Ṭā-Hā 20:63 ʾinna hādhāni la-sāḥirāni has been cause for much debate, both in traditional Muslim sources as well modern discussion. This paper sets out to reevaluate the grammar various reading that are present by comparing them not against normative it is established medieval grammarians, but rather its other, comparable construction Qurʾān. By analyzing this Qurʾānic verse within intra-Qurʾānic parallels argued minority ʾin hadhāni original intended ʿUthmānic text, while grammatically problematic majority be understood an approximation popular non-ʿUthmānic readings. Through comparison with other verses, also shown we may gain deeper understanding into verses constructions type found al-Ṭāriq 86:4 ( wa-ʾin kullu nafsin la-mā ʿalayhā ḥāfiẓun ) and shed light on some competing canonical readings these verses.