Critical Studies on the Quranic Exegesis

Critical Studies on the Quranic Exegesis

The Origin of Interpreters' Differing Readings in the Exegesis of the Phrase Be, and It Is

Document Type : Promotional article

Authors
Masoumeh Hamedi Tazehkand 1
Hadi Vakili 2
Mozhgan Sarshar 3
1 PhD student in Qurʾān and Hadith studies, Faculty of Law, Theology and Political Sciences, Science and Research Unit, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of Islamic Philosophy and Contemporary Wisdom, Philosophy Research Institute, Research Institute of Humanities and Cultural Studies, Tehran, Iran.
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Qurʾān and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Law, Theology and Political Sciences, Science and Research Unit,, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22034/naghdeara.2024.196025
Abstract
The text of the Qurʾān is considered consistent and protected from distortion among most groups; however, sometimes the difference in interpretation of a verse by commentators has led to conflicting opinions. The phrase “Kun Fa-Yakūn” (Be, and it is) has been interpreted under two general categories: allegorical and literal readings. This difference in interpretation has shaped the concepts of determinism and free will in creation. According to research findings, the origin of this difference lies mostly in the foundations, methods, and inclinations of the interpreter. In the realm of foundational principles, differences in recitations and Arabic grammar, the authority of apparent meanings, and the language of the Qurʾān are among the influential factors in differing opinions. In the interpretation of the phrase “Kun Fa-Yakūn” Sunni interpreters have utilized three methods: interpretation of the Qurʾān by the Qurʾān, the Qurʾān with traditions, and the Qurʾān with the sayings of companions and followers; however, Imami interpreters have limited themselves to interpretation with Qurʾānic verses and traditions of the infallibles. The interpreter's inclination in theological, philosophical, mystical, and doctrinal discussions is also very influential in their differing readings. Although the place of interpretation, due to its human aspect, is separate from the text of the Qurʾān, examining the origins of these differences is helpful in selecting readings and uncovering clear horizons of divine intent and acting upon them. This article, through library research and a descriptive-analytical method, has examined "the origin of the difference in interpreters' readings in the interpretation of the phrase “Kun Fa-Yakūn”.
 
Keywords
Ikhtilāf al-Qirāʾāt
interpretation of the Qurʾān by Qurʾān
differences in Arabicization of the verses
intellectual tendencies of the commentators of the Qurʾān

Subjects

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Critical Studies on the Quranic Exegesis
Volume 4, Issue 2 - Serial Number 8
March 2024
Pages 223-258

  • Receive Date 18 April 2024
  • Revise Date 12 May 2024
  • Accept Date 13 May 2024