Comparative Studies of Quran

Comparative Studies of Quran

A comparative study of Misbah Yazdi and Rashid Reza's views on how the first human was created from the perspective of the Qur'an

Document Type : Original

Authors
Amirreza Ashrafi 1
Mojtaba Mostashreq 2
1 Associate Professor, Department of Quranic Interpretation and Sciences, Imam Khomeini Educational and Research Institute, Qom, Iran.
2 PhD Student in Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Imam Khomeini Educational and Research Institute, Qom, Iran,
10.22034/csq.2025.483228.1480
Abstract
Detailed Abstract
Research objective: The present article offers a comparative examination of the views of two prominent Islamic thinkers regarding the interpretation of Qur’anic verses related to the creation of the first human being. The study analyzes and evaluates the perspective of Misbāḥ Yazdī as a representative of traditional exegetes, and that of Rashīd Riḍā as a representative of rationalist interpreters influenced by empirical sciences.
Research Method: The research employs a descriptive-analytical method, and the data has been gathered through library research. In this method, key concepts and Qur’anic verses related to the topic were first identified, followed by a comparative analysis of the perspectives of the two scholars. The use of credible exegetical sources and relevant scholarly works enabled a precise comparative study and provided greater depth to the analysis.
Findings: According to the findings, Rashīd Riḍā, influenced by the theory of evolution, has attempted to align Qur’anic verses with this theory. He believes that the Qur’an does not explicitly discuss the method of human creation, and some verses can be interpreted in a way consistent with evolutionary theory. By presenting an allegorical interpretation of creation narratives, Rashīd Riḍā justifies his stance and denies the notion of Adam (PBUH) as the father of humanity. He argues that verses related to human creation can have multiple interpretations that align with contemporary scientific and historical findings. From his perspective, the Qur’an speaks in a manner that does not conflict with the theory of evolution and can be reconciled with it.
In contrast, Misbāḥ Yazdī, relying on the apparent meanings of the Qur’an and traditional interpretative principles, considers the theory of evolution an unproven hypothesis that cannot serve as a basis for interpreting the Qur’anic text. He believes that the Qur’an clearly refers to the independent and direct creation of the first human from clay. Specifically, verse 59 of Qur’an 3 and verses 7 and 8 of Qur’an 32 are cited as evidence for the miraculous creation of Adam (PBUH). He emphasizes that the Qur’an’s language is realistic, entirely aligned with external reality, and grounded in the principles of rational discourse.
The analysis of the factors contributing to these divergent views reveals that interpretive principles, styles, and the degree of influence from empirical sciences play a crucial role in Qur’anic interpretation. Rashid Reza’s approach, characterized by an emphasis on empirical sciences and an allegorical view of Qur’anic stories, results in a more flexible but less rigorous interpretation. Conversely, Misbāḥ Yazdī’s reliance on the apparent meanings of verses and the authoritative nature of the Qur’an’s language leads to a more robust interpretation aligned with traditional Islamic principles. Differences in the use of interpretative evidence, such as contextual clues, authentic narrations, and Qur’anic indications, significantly impact the conclusions drawn by these two scholars.
Rashīd Riḍā interprets the term “nafs wahida” (a single soul) as “human essence,” which can be compatible with the theory of evolution. He maintains that Qur’anic verses in this regard are ambiguous and open to various interpretations. However, Misbāḥ Yazdī considers “nafs wahida” to Adam (PBUH), asserting that all humans descend from him and his spouse. Through a detailed analysis of the context of relevant verses, such as those in Qur’an 3, 32, and Qur’an 2, he demonstrates that the creation of the first human was independent and miraculous.
The article also explores how differences in utilizing interpretative evidence, such as authentic narrations and principles of rational discourse, shape these scholars’ conclusions. Misbāḥ Yazdī uses narrations related to the occasion of revelation as valid interpretative tools and underscores the methodological differences between his approach and Rashīd Riḍā’s. In contrast, Rashīd Riḍā incorporates historical narrations and allegorical interpretations to frame his perspective within a rationalist and scientific context.
Result: In conclusion, this comparative analysis reveals that Misbāḥ Yazdī’s interpretation, due to its coherent principles, precise application of interpretative rules, and appropriate use of evidence, demonstrates greater consistency and strength. In contrast, Rashīd Riḍā’s perspective, despite its innovation in addressing contemporary issues, is less precise due to excessive reliance on empirical sciences and allegorical readings. This study highlights the importance of foundational principles and methodology in providing an accurate and reliable interpretation of sacred texts. Furthermore, the findings suggest that traditional interpretative methods, especially in addressing topics such as the creation of the first human, are more capable of offering comprehensive interpretations aligned with Qur’anic teachings.
Keywords
Human Creation
Rashīd Riḍā
Misbāḥ Yazdī
Evolution of Species
Tafsir al-Manār – Scientific Exegesis

Subjects

The Holy Quran 
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  • Receive Date 13 October 2024
  • Revise Date 29 December 2024
  • Accept Date 22 February 2025
  • Publish Date 15 March 2025