Comparative Quranic Hermeneutics: The Exegetical Approaches of Imam Khamenei and Sayyid Qutb

Abstract

This research compares the practical exegetical methodologies of Imam Khamenei and Sayyid Qutb, analyzing their application of the Quran-by-Quran, narrational (Hadith-based), and rational methods of interpretation. The study is based on the analysis of the available exegetical texts of both figures to explore the employed methodological tools, identify fundamental points of convergence and divergence, and demonstrate their impact on their overall exegetical vision.

Both exegetes agree on the central importance of the 'interpreting the Quran by the Quran' (Tafsir al-Quran bi al-Quran) method, considering it the primary tool for understanding the Quranic text and clarifying its meanings. This is clearly evident in their respective use of other Quranic verses to explain concepts, identify specific instances (masadiq), and determine preferred meanings. However, significant methodological differences emerge in their approach to other sources. Imam Khamenei adopts a comprehensive ijtihadi (independent reasoning) approach, giving paramount importance to the narrational method, yet applying strict critical standards in examining the chain of narration (isnad) and the status of narrators ('ilm al-rijal), thereby rejecting reliance on unreliable or non-mutawatir (mass-transmitted) narrations. He also employs reason ('aql) as a fundamental tool within specific parameters (sound reason free from personal bias) to understand the objectives (maqasid) and evaluate opinions.

In contrast, although Sayyid Qutb uses narrations in his commentary "Fi Zilal al-Quran" (In the Shade of the Quran), his approach appears less constrained by rigorous isnād criteria compared to Imam Khamenei, even while acknowledging the existence of fabrication (wad') in Hadith. Qutb strongly emphasizes the thematic unity of the Quran and its activist (haraki) and spiritual message. Regarding reason, Qutb affirms its value but strongly stresses its limitations and the necessity of its absolute submission to the authority of divine revelation (wahy), warning against interpretations (ta'wilat) that make reason the arbiter over the text.

The study concludes that the divergence in methodological tools, particularly regarding the critical stance towards Hadith and the definition of reason's role and its relationship with the text, constitutes a key distinguishing feature between the two approaches. This significantly contributes to shaping the distinctive character of each exegetical project and their respective visions of the world, humanity, and society, reflecting the epistemological dimensions and intellectual orientations of both Imam Khamenei and Sayyid Qutb.