Sufi Hermeneutics of the Quranic Hierarchy of the Soul in Tafsīr Al-Mīzan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58485/elrusyd.v11i1.805Keywords:
Sufistic interpretation, levels of the soul (nafs), tafsīr al-mīzānAbstract
This study examines the Sufistic interpretation of the verses on the levels of the soul (nafs) in Tafsīr al-Mīzān by Muḥammad Ḥusayn Ṭabāṭabā’ī. The study is motivated by ongoing debates regarding Shi'a Quranic exegesis, which is often considered doctrinally biased, despite the moderate and philosophical characteristics of Tafsīr al-Mīzān. The research aims to analyze Ṭabāṭabā’ī's interpretation of the levels of the soul and to identify its Sufistic dimensions. This research employs a qualitative library research approach using descriptive and content analysis methods. The primary source is Tafsīr al-Mīzān, while secondary sources include classical and contemporary works on Quranic exegesis, Sufism, and related scholarly studies. The findings reveal that Ṭabāṭabā’ī interprets the levels of the soul nafs al-ammārah, nafs al-lawwāmah, nafs al-muṭma'innah, and nafs al-zakiyyah through a balanced synthesis of textual evidence, rational analysis, and spiritual insight. His interpretation emphasizes self-purification, divine guidance, repentance, and spiritual perfection while avoiding excessive sectarian tendencies. The study concludes that Tafsīr al-Mīzān offers a comprehensive and moderate Sufistic interpretation that remains relevant for contemporary Quranic studies and Islamic spiritual development.
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