of Nokounam , Session Ninety (Date: 20/6/1387 AH)
The seventh verse of the Noble Surah Al-Fatiha, صِرَاطَ الَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ غَيْرِ الْمَغْضُوبِ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا الضَّالِّينَ
(The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favour, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray), is a continuation of the supplication for guidance found in the preceding verse and elucidates the path of those who have been recipients of a special divine grace. This exegesis, adopting a philosophical and mystical approach, examines the distinction between two groups: the Siratiyyun (those on the path of guidance) and the In'amiyn (the specially favoured ones). By critically assessing existing interpretations and emphasising the necessity for a scientific and precise methodology in Quranic interpretation, this analysis explores the existential hierarchies, the role of divine will, and the intrinsic differences between these two groups. The present writing, articulated in a lofty style and systematic structure, offers a profound and comprehensive perspective for an audience specialised in Quranic sciences, philosophy, and mysticism.
The comprehension and interpretation of the Noble Quran throughout history have frequently lacked sufficient depth and precision. Numerous interpretations, especially within various Islamic sects, have been confined to popular and emotional approaches and devoid of scientific and philosophical foundations. This deficiency has resulted in the detachment of exegeses from the authentic Quranic text.
This shortcoming resembles a shadow cast over the light of the Quran, preventing the full radiance of its meanings from shining forth. There exists an undeniable necessity for a scientific and systematic approach to interpretation.
The claim of scientific authenticity by some interpretations, such as those promoted in certain educational institutions, is erroneous. These institutions, instead of grounding interpretation upon scientific foundations, have resorted to superficiality and simplification of the Quranic meanings.
Such claims resemble the construction of a building upon a fragile foundation, incapable of supporting the profound weight of Quranic meanings.
Historical Quranic interpretations, due to their lack of scientific methodology and reliance on personal taste, have failed to adequately elucidate the depth of Quranic meanings. This critique underscores the imperative to revisit the methodological framework of exegesis.
The seventh verse of Surah Al-Fatiha, صِرَاطَ الَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ
(the path of those upon whom You have bestowed favour), refers to two distinct groups: the Siratiyyun who progress on the path of guidance through effort and acquisition, and the In'amiyn who have been recipients of a special divine favour non-acquisitively.
صِرَاطَ الَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ غَيْرِ الْمَغْضُوبِ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا الضَّالِّينَ
The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favour, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray.
This distinction is akin to the difference between travellers who walk a path on foot and those who ascend to heights on divine wings.
The Siratiyyun exist within the realm of acquisition and seeking guidance, whereas the In'amiyn occupy a superior station transcending effort and endeavour. This difference is rooted in divine will and the innate capacities of individuals.
These hierarchies resemble the layers of a vast edifice, where each individual, in their respective place, progresses toward perfection, but the destination of the In'amiyn is a summit attainable solely through divine grace.
The seventh verse of Surah Al-Fatiha, by referring to the path of the In'amiyn, clarifies the distinction between the Siratiyyun and the In'amiyn. This differentiation originates in existential hierarchies and divine will.
Within the cosmic order, no path is closed. Every individual, at their respective level, may advance toward perfection. The Siratiyyun progress through their own exertion, and the In'amiyn traverse a superior path by divine grace.
This openness resembles a door opened to all, where each person may step forward according to their capacity.
The Siratiyyun resemble travellers advancing along the path by ordinary means, whereas the In'amiyn, by divine grace and speed, attain exalted destinations.
This difference is like that between cycling on a dusty road and flying by jet in the sky; both are in motion, but their speed and destination differ.
The cosmic order, by keeping the paths of guidance open, enables every individual to progress toward perfection. The distinction between the Siratiyyun and the In'amiyn lies in the velocity and capacity of their advancement.
The intrinsic differences between the Siratiyyun and the In'amiyn are the result of divine will. The In'amiyn, due to a special divine selection, occupy a superior station.
This will resembles the divine hand placing each individual in their special position.
The aptitudes and stations of individuals result from historical and genetic factors shaped over centuries within the system of creation. These factors determine the ranks of the In'amiyn and the Siratiyyun.
These factors resemble the roots of a tree that bring forth todays fruits from the soil of the past.
Divine will and historical factors play a pivotal role in determining the hierarchies of the Siratiyyun and the In'amiyn. These factors specify each individuals place within the cosmic order.
The conversion of a Sirati into an Inami is impossible due to intrinsic and hierarchical differences. The Siratiyyun exist within the realm of maiyyat (companionship) with the truthful, whereas the Inamiyn occupy the station of ayniyyat (direct existential reality) with the Truth.
كُونُوا مَعَ الصَّادِقِينَ
Be with those who are truthful.
This impossibility resembles a boundary drawn between two existential domains, beyond which passage is not feasible.
The Inamiyn, like the prophets and saints, reside in a station compatible with the finality of prophethood. The Siratiyyun, although on the path of guidance, remain within the station of manifestation and descent.
This difference is akin to the distinction between a summit only accessible to divine elect and a plain upon which others walk.
The conversion of a Sirati into an Inami, due to hierarchical distinctions and the finality of prophethood, is impossible. This distinction reflects the role of divine will in determining each individuals station.
Emotional and illogical interpretations lead to deviation in the understanding of the Noble Quran. Instead of accurately elucidating the meanings, such interpretations rely on personal expressions and preferences.
These interpretations resemble broken mirrors that fail to reflect the complete image of the Quran.
The use of terms such as طمعورزان (the covetous) or تالی تلو عصمت (followers following infallibility) in interpretation is incorrect due to their incompatibility with Quranic and mystical concepts.
These terms resemble words employed in an incorrect context that distort the original meaning of the verse.
Non-scientific interpretations and erroneous expressions hinder the precise understanding of the Noble Quran. The necessity for a scientific and logical approach to interpretation becomes increasingly imperative.
The exegesis of the verse صِرَاطَ الَّذِينَ أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ
, through a philosophical-mystical approach, elucidates the distinction between the Siratiyyun and the Inamiyn and emphasises the role of divine will and historical factors in determining existential hierarchies. The critique of emotional interpretations and erroneous expressions highlights the necessity of a scientific and systematic approach to the Noble Quran. This analysis, grounded in existential hierarchies and the finality of prophethood, paves the way for a deeper understanding of the Quran. For future research, it is recommended that the distinction between maiyyat and ayniyyat, relying on Islamic philosophical and mystical texts, be investigated in a more systematic manner.
Supervised by Sadegh Khademi
