Multi-layered and Composite Semiotic Discourse Analysis of Verses 13–32 of “Sūrah Yāsīn”

The objective of this study is a semiotic discourse analysis of verses 13–32 of "Sūrah Yāsīn" to uncover layers of meaning within the Meccan context. These verses, through the narration of the story of a town (al-qaryah) that rejected the prophets, convey monotheistic messages, warnings, and moral lessons. However, the process of meaning production in this discourse requires investigation. The primary research question is: How do signs, binaries, and semantic systems generate meaning in these verses and impact their audience? The methodology employs semiotic analysis grounded in semiotics theories, focusing on the identification of signs and semantic structures. The findings reveal that signs such as “al-qaryah” (the town) and “man aqsā al-madīna rajul” (a man from the farthest end of the city) produce implicit connotations linked to Mecca; binaries of faith–unbelief (īmān–kufr) and monotheism–polytheism (tawḥīd–shirk) organize the discourse; and semantic systems at literal, implicit, and ideological levels evoke sensations of fear, hope, and admonition among the Quraysh and the believers. In conclusion, these verses transform the Meccan proclamation into a profoundly influential and timeless message through a network of signs and semantic systems.