Quranic Knowledge Extraction: A Statistical Approach

Abstract

During the last century, many critiques aroused targeting Quranic knowledge extraction methodologies. Quran was revealed in the classic Arabic language, over 1400 years ago, for its richness in vocabulary, structure and literal aspects that meets the level of knowledge to be delivered. Although the knowledge within the Quran text is mainly meant for maintaining optimum way of life for mankind but it also exposes different levels of knowledge to different levels of understanding and fields. The profound depth contained in the Quran makes it impossible to get a direct interpretation for all information embedded within verses of this holy book. Therefore, having a methodology to analyze ideas, facts and concepts within Quran verses provides deeper comprehension and new patterns derivation leading to brainstorming in many scientific fields. This paper, reviewed techniques used in the literature to reflect facets of interpreting the multi-layered meanings of this noble book. Furthermore, descriptive statistical tools such as stem-and-leaf plot, histogram, box plot, pareto chart and cause-and-effect diagram were proposed to enhance the knowledge extraction and pattern recognition within Quran verses. Finally, proposing a scheme to relate the extracted Quranic patterns to Information Technology applications for upgrading current IT systems.