Examining the Interpretive Methods of Iranian Sunni Commentators from 1980 to 2011

Abstract

Undoubtedly, the science of Qur’anic exegesis is one of the most significant Islamic sciences, which has held special importance for Muslims throughout history. They have continuously made substantial efforts to learn and master this discipline. The study of exegeses in the domain of methodology and attention to its various dimensions is essential for achieving a proper method for interpreting the Qur’an. This is because failing to apply interpretive principles and adopting diverse, sometimes unreliable, methods has led to a clear distinction between accurate Qur’anic interpretation and interpretation without methodology or criteria. This study introduces the interpretive methods employed by Iranian Sunni commentators from 1980 to 2011. During this period, coinciding with the post-Islamic Revolution era, Iranian Sunni scholars experienced significant growth, producing numerous exegetical works. The findings of the research indicate that during the period under investigation, these commentators utilized interpretive methods such as: interpreting the Qur’an through the Qur’an, interpretation with traditions (Hadith), reason, science, intuitive interpretation, ijtihad, jurisprudential analysis, rhetorical analysis, linguistic approaches, and understanding the causes of revelation (asbab al-nuzul).