Principles and Rules of Scientific Exegesis in Tafsir al-Amthal*

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Faculty Member and Assistant Professor at the Fakhr Razi Higher Academic Institute of Saweh

2 Graduate of 4th Level Studies from Jamiʿat al-Zahra (a) (Primary Author

3 Lecturer at the Hawza Ilmiyyah

Abstract

Abstract
Scientific exegesis is one of the methods of Qurʾānic exegesis in which the exegete explains the meaning of revealed verses using definitive findings of empirical science. With the spread of this method in contemporary times, certain radical approaches have been adopted by some individuals that have led many to reject this method of exegesis. Of the exegeses that have attempted to maintain a moderate balance in scientific interpretations is Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi’s Tafsīr al-Amthal. This article seeks to provide, using a descriptive-analytical approach, an analysis of the principles and rules presented in this exegesis. A study of this exegesis reveals its emphasis on certain rules for scientific interpretation such as paying attention to the literal meaning of the words during the time of revelation, considering the rules of Arabic grammar, restricting the exegesis to only established scientific facts, importance of the context and other clues such as the overall goal of the Qurʾānic message, taking the words of the Qurʾān as fact, restricting the scope of scientific exegesis to specific verses, explaining natural phenomena in terms established by empirical sciences, and the necessity of adhering to these rules and principles of exegesis in any scientific interpretation of the Qurʾān. All this plays a role in ensuring that the scientific exegesis is correct

Keywords

The Quran and Science
Volume 13, Issue 24
January 0
Pages 9-34

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History

  • Receive Date: 22 December 2018
  • Revise Date: 07 May 2019
  • Accept Date: 24 June 2019

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