The representation of ‘Ego’ or ‘Khudi’ in Iqbal’s The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam: A Corpus-Based Study

Abstract

The present study tends to reconcile corpus linguistics and the concept of ‘Khudi’ or ‘Ego’, which is fundamental to Iqbal’s philosophy. Corpus tools help in understanding the significance of ‘Ego’ in Iqbal’s philosophy as enunciated in The Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam. The study follows mixed method of research because it suits the requirements of the study. Analytical data is quantitatively displayed and collected, which is then qualitatively analyzed by the researchers. Sketch Engine is used as a corpus tool that helps in analyzing and representing the actual concept and significance of ‘Ego’ and ‘Khudi’. Results conclude that ‘Ego’ is dominant in the ideology and philosophy of Iqbal as given in the said book. ‘Ego’ appears in the positive manner because not a single instance has been found, in which it is used in a negative sense. Both ‘Ego’ and ‘Khudi’ shares similar meaning yet differently represented. The study is recommended to the academics, students and researchers. The research design and methodology of the present study can be applied to other similar works as well.