The rule of preference by abrogation according to the commentators

Abstract

The principle of preference by abrogation (tarjīḥ bi-n-naskh) is considered one of the important rules in Qur’anic exegesis, as it plays a decisive role in determining the divine intent and establishing the correct legal ruling when apparent textual contradictions arise.

Abrogation — as a discipline concerned with the annulment of a legal ruling established by an earlier revelation through a later one — constitutes one of the essential tools that enable the exegete to comprehend the verses of legal rulings and resolve apparent inconsistencies among them.

Exegetes have often based their preference for certain interpretive opinions on other Qur’anic texts that either support the selected view or indicate its chronological precedence or delay, revealing the profound connection between the sciences of abrogation (naskh) and preference (tarjīḥ).

This study aims to clarify the concept of preference by abrogation, its conditions and principles, and to explore its impact on exegetical methodologies through multiple applied examples. The research adopts a comparative analytical approach to reveal the extent to which the rule of abrogation functions as a criterion for preferring among interpretive opinions, highlighting its methodological precision in understanding the Qur’anic text. After reviewing the theoretical and applied concepts of the rule of preference by abrogation, it becomes clear that this rule represents one of the precise methodological pillars in the science of interpretation, as it contributes to controlling the handling of Qur’anic texts with conflicting phenomena, and reveals the depth of legislative awareness in the Holy Qur’an, which is based on gradualism and consideration of the interests of the people. The research consists of an introduction, two sections, and a conclusion. The first section addresses the theoretical concepts of preference and abrogation and their conditions. The second section includes practical applications of the principle of preference based on abrogation as found in books of exegesis. The research concludes with the most important findings reached by the researcher through comparison and analysis.