of Nokounam , Session Ten
The interpretation (ta'wil) of the Holy Qur'an, as one of the deepest and most intricate subjects within Qur'anic sciences, constitutes a path towards penetrating the inner realities of the cosmos and the divine verses. This process, which transcends the superficial exegesis, guides the seeker towards proximity to the Divine Lordship. Ta'wil, with a mystical and philosophical perspective, not only uncovers the inner meanings of the verses but also provides a means for recognising the ultimate realities of objects and beings in existence. This work, inspired by profound and esoteric lectures, elucidates the nature of ta'wil, its categories, and the unparalleled role of the Holy Qur'an in this process. Its aim is to present this sublime knowledge in an elegant language and systematic structure for an erudite audience and researchers of religious sciences.
Ta'wil is defined as the access to the inner reality and profound essence of any entity, whether it be the verses of the Holy Qur'an or external objects. This definition introduces ta'wil as an absolute and general process applicable to the cognition of all beings. Unlike interpretation (tafsir), which is confined to the outward aspects of the verses, ta'wil endeavours to discover deeper layers of meaning and truth, as if directing the seeker towards the hidden essence of things.
Tafsir pertains to explaining the apparent meanings of the verses and addressing superficial questions, whereas ta'wil engages in inner comprehension through the outward forms. This process is weighty and demands spiritual purity and readiness, resembling a journey from exterior to interior that is only attainable through self-purification.
Ta'wil can occur in several manners, each presenting a distinct path for esoteric knowledge:
So look upon the effects of the mercy of Allah (Surah Ar-Rum: 50)
This verse invites the seeker to contemplate the manifestations of Divine mercy, which can serve as a bridge to access the inner realities of objects and then the Holy Qur'an.
The categories of ta'wil reveal the breadth and profundity of this process. Each route, depending on its origin and means of cognition, brings about different degrees of knowledge. The route from the Holy Qur'an to itself, due to the comprehensiveness and transcendence of Divine speech, is the preeminent way to attain inner truths.
A fundamental question arises as to whether the inner reality of the Holy Qur'an is something separate from the realities of objects or if it encompasses these realities. The Qur'an addresses diverse subjects such as the world, the Hereafter, the earth, the heavens, the believers, and the disbelievers. The proposed answer is that the inner reality of the Qur'an includes both the realities of objects and a transcendent reality beyond them. This duality introduces the Qur'an not only as a mirror reflecting realities but also as an independent and Divine truth.
The Divine saints, owing to their elevated epistemological ranks, are divided into various groups and levels within the process of ta'wil. Some excel in one dimension while others in different dimensions. However, the Infallible Imams (peace be upon them), due to possessing the collective capacity of Divine Names, hold the most complete level of ta'wil. This comprehensiveness renders them the speaking Qur'an, granting them access to all truths of the universe, past and future.
The inner reality of the Holy Qur'an includes both the realities of objects and a reality beyond them. This exalted position makes the Qur'an an unparalleled tool for esoteric knowledge. The Divine saints, especially the Infallibles (peace be upon them), due to their epistemic comprehensiveness, are the primary guides in this path.
Knowledge of the cosmos through the cosmos is beset with numerous obstacles, since the world is not under human control and the summoning of entities (such as the Resurrection or the heavens) is not feasible. The Holy Qur'an, by creating proximity of presence, places the entire cosmos within the seekers reach. This characteristic makes the Qur'an a unique instrument for inner knowledge.
No moist or dry [thing] but it is in a clear Book. (Surah Al-An'am: 59)
This verse emphasises the comprehensiveness of the Qur'an in summoning realities and indicates that Divine speech contains the entire cosmos within itself.
In ta'wil through objects, corporeal and multiplicity-related obstacles impede the process, whereas in ta'wil through the Qur'an, only the requisite condition (inner readiness) is needed and no barrier exists. This characteristic renders Qur'anic ta'wil easier and purer, as if the Qur'an lifts the material veils and directly guides the seeker to the truth.
Emphasis on frequent recitation of the Holy Qur'an is due to its creation of proximity of presence. This practice brings entities closer to the person and the person closer to them, as if a bridge exists between the seeker and the realities of the cosmos.
Recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. (Surah Al-Muzzammil: 20)
This verse underscores the importance of perseverance in recitation to attain Qur'anic knowledge.
The Holy Qur'an, by establishing proximity of presence and removing corporeal barriers, paves the way for esoteric knowledge. Repeated recitation, as a spiritual exercise, draws the seeker closer to the truth.
Ta'wil requires two fundamental elements:
These two conditions make ta'wil a combined process of external tools and internal readiness. The absence of either renders the process incomplete.
This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah. (Surah Al-Baqarah: 2)
This verse emphasises the importance of piety and purity in understanding Qur'anic knowledge.
Not only in the ta'wil of the Qur'an but also in prayers, remembrances, and Divine Names, both elements of words and purity are necessary. Words alone are insufficient and purity without words is incomplete.
Ta'wil, due to its subtlety and critical nature, is dangerous and may lead to deviation. Criteria for the correctness of ta'wil include purity, conformity with tafsir, and the type of reading. Without these criteria, the seeker stands on the brink of error.
And none knows its interpretation except Allah and those firm in knowledge. (Surah Aal-Imran: 7)
This verse restricts the knowledge of ta'wil to Allah and the firm in knowledge, yet simultaneously confirms its possibility for pure and self-purified seekers.
The firm in knowledge can also attain ta'wil, provided they possess purity and proximity to the Qur'an. Each individual benefits from ta'wil in proportion to their purity and manner of recitation.
Ta'wil is a perilous yet attainable path, requiring the words of the Qur'an as signifiers and spiritual purity. Despite its dangers, it is accessible to the firm in knowledge and seekers with purity and self-purification.
Recitation of the Holy Qur'an possesses various levels: verbal, spiritual, intellectual, angelic, attributive, and intrinsic. Each recitation reveals a different inner reality, with the spiritual recitation being closer to ta'wil.
