Interpretation of the Qur’an and the Interpretation of Objects

One of the central questions is whether the interpretation of the Qur’an pertains to the inner meaning of the verses or to the inner reality of external objects which the Qur’an discusses (such as the Resurrection, faith, or ethics). The Qur’an, as a comprehensive book, encompasses everything:

“There is no creature on earth, nor a bird flying with its wings, but they are communities like you. We have not neglected anything in the Book (Preserved Tablet)” (Al-An‘ām 6:38).

The answer is that the interpretation of the Qur’an pertains to the inner meaning conveyed by the verses, but since the verses speak of objects, the interpretation of the verses effectively reveals the inner reality of those objects within the framework of the Qur’an. This distinction highlights the difference between the interpretation of objects (the inner reality of objects without reference to the Qur’an) and the interpretation of the verses (the inner reality of objects within the framework of the Qur’an).

The Qur’an as a Universal Mirror

The Qur’an functions as a universal mirror, revealing not only the cosmic order but also the structure of existence and divine truths. This characteristic makes the Qur’an an unparalleled instrument for accessing the inner reality of objects through its verses. For instance, the Qur’an enables observation of the inner realities of prophets, the Resurrection, or divine truths, which would otherwise be inaccessible.

Key point: The Qur’an, as a universal mirror, facilitates access to the inner reality of objects through its verses, making interpretation a tool for discovering divine truths.

The Complexity of Hermeneutics and Intimacy with the Qur’an

Hermeneutics, due to its depth and precision, is like a jeweller’s scale, easily thrown off balance by the slightest change. This complexity illustrates the difference between interpretation and exegesis, akin to the distance between earth and sky. Interpretation requires profound knowledge, inner intuition, and heartfelt presence, going beyond outward knowledge.

Intimacy with the Qur’an for Understanding Interpretation

Understanding interpretation necessitates intimacy with the Qur’an and attentive contemplation. This intimacy guides a person from the material level of the self to the symbolic (spiritual) level. Viewing the Qur’an as divine signs, rather than merely paper and ink, paves the way for discovering the inner reality of the verses. Just as one appreciates the beauty and delicacy of a fruit through reflection, contemplation of the Qur’an with heartfelt presence leads to the truth of its verses.

Key point: Intimacy with the Qur’an and contemplative attention are essential conditions for understanding interpretation and discovering the inner reality of the divine verses.

We have explored the concept of interpretation and exegesis of the Qur’an and, by distinguishing between the material (external) and symbolic (spiritual) levels, provided a precise framework for understanding the inner reality of divine verses. Interpretation, as the expression of the inner meaning of the verses, transcends literal exegesis, revealing divine wisdom and truths. The Qur’an, as a universal mirror, enables access to the inner reality of objects through its verses, and its interpretation requires intimacy, heartfelt presence, and profound knowledge. The distinction between the material and symbolic levels demonstrates the epistemic depth of this discussion and facilitates researchers in achieving a deeper understanding of Qur’anic knowledge.

Interpretation of the Qur’an: Discovery of Inner Reality and Proximity to Divine Truths

The interpretation of the Qur’an, as one of the deepest and most complex topics in Qur’anic sciences, provides a path to penetrate the inner reality of the universe and the divine signs. This process, which transcends literal exegesis, guides the seeker toward divine proximity. With mystical and philosophical insight, interpretation not only uncovers the inner meanings of the verses but also provides a means of understanding the reality of objects and beings in the world.

Interpretation is defined as access to the inner and profound truth of each entity, whether Qur’anic verses or external objects. This definition presents interpretation as a general and absolute process applicable to all beings. Unlike exegesis, which is limited to the outward meaning of the verses, interpretation explores deeper layers of meaning and truth, leading the seeker toward the hidden essence of things.

Key point: Interpretation is absolute discovery of the inner reality, encompassing not only the Qur’anic verses but all beings, providing a pathway to penetrate their existential truth.

A More Precise Distinction Between Interpretation and Exegesis

Exegesis is limited to explaining the outward meaning of the verses and addressing apparent questions, whereas interpretation penetrates the inner reality through the outward. This process is weighty and requires spiritual purity and preparedness, akin to a journey from outward to inward, achievable only through self-discipline.

Types of Interpretation and Epistemic Pathways

Interpretation can occur in several ways, each offering a distinct path for inner knowledge:

• From the Qur’an to objects: using verses to understand the inner reality of objects.
• From objects to the Qur’an: contemplating the manifestations of divine mercy to access the inner reality of objects and then the Qur’an.
• From the Qur’an to the Qur’an: discovering the inner meaning of the verses through the Qur’an itself, which is the highest form of interpretation.
• From objects to objects: understanding the inner reality of an object without the mediation of the Qur’an.

Key point: The diversity of interpretive types demonstrates the flexibility of this process across different epistemic paths, with Qur’an-to-Qur’an interpretation being the highest due to the exalted status of the divine word.

“Then observe the effects of God’s mercy” (Ar-Rūm 30:50)

This verse invites the seeker to contemplate the effects of divine mercy, which can serve as a bridge to access the inner reality of objects and then the Qur’an. The types of interpretation demonstrate the breadth and depth of this process, with each path yielding different degrees of knowledge depending on its starting point and method. Entry from the Qur’an to the Qur’an, due to the comprehensiveness and exalted nature of the divine word, is the superior route to attain inner truths.

The Inner Reality of the Qur’an and Its Role in Knowledge

A fundamental question is whether the inner reality of the Qur’an is separate from the truths of objects or encompasses them. The Qur’an addresses diverse topics such as the world, Resurrection, earth, heaven, believers, and non-believers. The proposed answer is that the inner reality of the Qur’an encompasses both the truths of objects and a transcendent reality beyond them. This duality presents the Qur’an not only as a mirror reflecting truths but also as an independent, divine reality.

Key point: The Qur’an, as the divine word, both conveys the truths of objects and possesses a transcendent reality that guides the seeker toward divine knowledge.

The Role of the Divine Guides in Interpretation

The divine guides, due to their high epistemic ranks, are categorized into different levels in the process of interpretation. Some excel in one dimension, others in multiple dimensions. However, the infallible guides, possessing the capacity for comprehensive divine names, represent the highest level of interpretation. This comprehensiveness transforms them into a “speaking Qur’an,” granting access to all truths of the universe, past and future.

Key point: The infallible guides, by possessing comprehensive divine capacity, attain the highest degree of interpretation and, as a speaking Qur’an, have knowledge of all that has been, will be, and exists.

The inner reality of the Qur’an encompasses both the truths of objects and a reality beyond them. This exalted position renders the Qur’an an unparalleled instrument for inner knowledge. The divine guides, particularly the infallible, due to their comprehensive epistemic capacity, are the primary guides on this path.

Qur’anic Epistemology and Overcoming Barriers to Inner Knowledge

Understanding the world through the world is accompanied by many obstacles, as the world is not subject to human command, and it is impossible to summon entities such as the Resurrection or the heavens. The Qur’an, by establishing “proximity of presence,” makes the entire world accessible to the seeker. This feature renders the Qur’an an unparalleled instrument for inner knowledge.