Comparative Studies of Quran

Comparative Studies of Quran

A Study of Objections to the Concept of Religious Dissimulation [Taqiyyah] from the Perspective of Sunni and Shiʿi Exegetes (A Case Study of Āl ʿImrān 3:28, al-Naḥl 16:106, and Ghāfir 40:28)

Document Type : Original

Authors
Muhammad Mahdavi 1
Muhammad Azimi 2
Mahdi Monazzeh 3
1 Associate Professor Department of Islamic Studies, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor Department of Islamic Studies, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
10.22034/csq.2025.498326.1507
Abstract
Detailed Abstract
Research Objective: The doctrine of Taqiyyah (Religious dissimulation) is one of the shared beliefs between Shi'a and Sunni Islam and holds a central place in religious texts. Rooted in Qur’anic teachings, this concept has been emphasized in various verses of the Qur’an, and its legitimacy is clearly established. The primary objective of this research is to explore and clarify the concept of Taqiyyah in the Qur’an, analyzing the perspectives of Shi'a and Sunni Qur’anic exegetes, particularly regarding verses 28 of Surah Al-Imrān, 106 of Surah An-Nahl, and 28 of Surah Ghāfir. This study aims to address the objections raised against the Shi'a regarding this doctrine and to identify points of agreement and disagreement between the two Islamic schools of thought concerning the concept and conditions of Taqiyyah.
Research Methodology: This research employs an analytical-descriptive approach, utilizing reputable library resources to examine and compare the views of Shi'a and Sunni Qur’anic exegetes on the verses related to Taqiyyah. Special attention is given to the perspectives of Sunni Qur’anic exegetes with Salafi and literalist approaches, who have raised objections against the concept of Taqiyyah.
Findings: The findings of this research indicate that both sects agree on the prohibition of forming alliances with disbelievers, as emphasized in verse 28 of Surah Al-Imrān while permitting association with them in cases of necessity. Regarding verse 106 of Surah An-Nahl, both sects agree that Taqiyyah is permissible under compulsion or fear of harm, but only to the extent necessary. Both Shi'a and Sunni traditions cite the story of Ammar ibn Yāsir in the context of this verse and narrate the famous saying of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) concerning Ammar. In the case of verse 28 of Surah Ghāfir, Shi'a commentators do not specify a particular context for its revelation, while Sunni Qur’anic exegetes attribute its revelation to Abu Bakr's defense of the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family). Both schools of thought emphasize the legitimacy of Taqiyyah based on this verse and propose similar possibilities regarding the identity of the "believing man" mentioned in the verse. The main difference lies in the fact that Shi'a scholars generally do not consider abandoning Taqiyyah permissible under compulsion, whereas Sunni scholars view such an approach as preferable.
Final Conclusion: Ultimately, this research demonstrates that Shi'a and Sunni Islam agree on the principles and definition of Taqiyyah to the extent that both schools of thought permit it in cases of necessity and to the degree required. The practice of Taqiyyah can take the form of concealment, verbal dissimulation, or practical compliance. Based on this, commentators from both schools of thought believe that, despite the specific contexts of the verses related to disbelievers, the concept of Taqiyyah can be applied in the face of any opposition where the necessary conditions are met. Additionally, Taqiyyah is permissible for religious leaders unless it leads to harm to the religion. Except for some literalist Qur’anic exegetes, most scholars from both schools of thought have reached a common interpretation of this doctrine.
Keywords
Shi'a and Sunni
Taqiyyah
Verses of Taqiyyah
Religious Dissimulation
Objections Exegesis

Subjects

The Holy Quran
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  • Receive Date 06 January 2025
  • Revise Date 04 February 2025
  • Accept Date 05 February 2025
  • Publish Date 15 March 2025