Comparative Studies of Quran

Comparative Studies of Quran

The Role of Political Hypocrisy in Deviating the Path of Succession to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) Based on the Exegeses of the Two Sects (With a Focus on Surah At-Tawbah)

Document Type : Original

Authors
MohammadJavad Dashti 1
Ehsan Ebrahimi 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Quranic Exegesis, Al-Mustafa International University, Qom, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Interpretation Department, Al-Mustafa University, Qom, Iran.
10.22034/csq.2025.458922.1425
Abstract
Detailed Abstract
Research Objective:
The primary objective of this research is to analyze the role of political hypocrisy (nifaq) in deviating the path of succession to the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Centered on the verses of Surah At-Tawbah and utilizing the comparative exegetical and historical sources of both Islamic schools of thought (Fariqayn—Sunni and Shia), this study examines how political hypocrisy affected the succession of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH). In early Islam, a hazardous form of political hypocrisy emerged in opposition to the sovereign authority of the community. Originating in Mecca, its ultimate objective was to undermine the core tenets of Islam and actively sabotage the succession of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Research Methodology:
This research employs a library-based and documentary approach for data collection. The gathered data was processed and synthesized using a descriptive-analytical method. The viewpoints of prominent commentators in authoritative exegetical works of both schools of thought (Fariqayn), alongside corresponding historical records, were systematically compiled. Subsequently, content analysis was utilized to critically evaluate the perspectives surrounding the research topic, relying on Quranic, narrational (hadith), and historical proofs, with direct citations from the comparative exegetical sources of both sects.
Research Findings:
The findings of this study demonstrate that political hypocrisy in early Islam manifested in two distinct dimensions: overt and covert.
• Overt political hypocrisy regarding the succession of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) included several key obstructionist actions:
1. The refusal of Abdullah ibn Ubayy to accompany the Islamic army in the Battle of Tabuk;
2. The systematic fabrication of excuses by the hypocrites to evade joining the expedition;
3. The hypocrites' ridicule of the Muslim fighters (mujahidin) participating in Tabuk;
4. The hypocrites' constant fault-finding regarding the financial backers and contributions made to the Islamic army; and
5. The active conspiracy of building Masjid al-Dirar (the Mosque of Opposition) during the absence of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
• Covert political hypocrisy played an even more fundamental role in deviating the path of succession to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) through highly calculated maneuvers, specifically:
1. The systematic degradation and undermining of the theological and historical virtues of Imam Ali (AS);
2. Strengthening internal solidarity among co-conspirators through the drafting of a [secret] covenant (Sahifah);
3. Establishing a deep-seated and widespread infiltration into both the Muslim society and the administrative apparatus of governance;
4. Disobeying the explicit command of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) to join the military expedition under the command of Usama; and
5. Openly defying the Prophet's final deathbed instruction to write his testament [historically known as the Calamity of Thursday].
Final Conclusion:
Ultimately, this research concludes that while overt hypocrisy involved visible disruptions—such as refusing participation in the Battle of Tabuk and constructing Masjid al-Dirar—covert political hypocrisy proved to be far more damaging. Through systematic actions including denigrating the peerless virtues of Imam Ali (AS), drafting treacherous covenants, and establishing deep-seated structural infiltration within the socio-political system, covert hypocrisy played a major and decisive role in successfully deviating the divinely ordained path of succession to the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
Keywords
Hypocrisy (Nifaq)
Political Hypocrisy
Succession of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)
Surah At-Tawbah
Wilayah (Guardianship) in the Quran
Comparative Exegesis (Tafsir al-Muqaran)
Subjects
The Holy Qur’an.
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Comparative Studies of Quran
Volume 10, Issue 2 - Serial Number 20
January 2026
Pages 214-239

  • Receive Date 23 May 2024
  • Revise Date 19 February 2025
  • Accept Date 31 May 2024
  • Publish Date 22 December 2025