A Comparative Review of the Meanings of Disjointed Letters in the Perspectives of Orientalists and Exegetes of Two Major Schools (Shia and Sunni), Emphasizing the Views of His Eminence, The Supreme Leader

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Associate Professor and Faculty Member at the Faculty of Theology, University of Ilam, Iran

2 .PhD Candidate of Quran and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology, University of Ilam, Ira

3 Assistant Professor and Faculty Member at the University of Quranic Sciences and Teachings, Qom, Iran (Corresponding Author):

10.22034/jqopv.2024.9097

Abstract

The unknown nature of the disjointed letters in the Quran has hindered human understanding of their true meanings. Consequently, various hypotheses and viewpoints have been raised regarding their meanings. Among these, Orientalists present hypotheses derived from their foundations and presuppositions in understanding the Quran, considering it as having a non-divine origin. Their viewpoints are compared with the perspectives and hypotheses of the exegetes of the two schools (Sunni and Shia), focusing on the meanings of these letters. The research method employed is descriptive-analytical with a comparative approach. The research findings indicate that the Orientalists’ viewpoint regarding the assumed abbreviatory nature of these letters for the owners of the Qurans contradicts the views of the exegetes of the two schools. This indicates the unreliable evidence of Orientalists concerning the meanings of these letters. Similarities between the viewpoints of Orientalists and the exegetes of the two schools include the spiritual connection of these letters to the content of the verses, their cryptic expression, and their relation to the term “book,” representing common thoughts on the meanings of disjointed letters among both Orientalists and exegetes. Orientalists have proposed five general viewpoints, while exegetes have offered eleven viewpoints on this subject, making it difficult to derive a comprehensive meaning from these perspectives. In the ideology of His Eminence, a symbolic connection exists between these letters and the Holy Quran, as in most instances where these letters appear, the Quran is also mentioned. His Eminence’s main perspective on these letters indicates that they are an artistic miracle (the Quran) of God and signify the greatness of the source and origin of the Holy Quran.

Keywords

References

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The Qur’an from Orientalists Point of View
Volume 18, Issue 35 - Serial Number 35
(Registration No. 124/ 5086 Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance)
March 2024
Pages 127-154

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History

  • Receive Date: 03 March 2023
  • Revise Date: 31 July 2023
  • Accept Date: 25 November 2023

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