Comparative Studies of Quran

Comparative Studies of Quran

A Critique and Analysis of John Burton's Erroneous Citations of Quranic Verses in Proving the Abrogation of Ruling and Recitation from the Perspective of Shia and Sunni Exegetes

Document Type : Original

Authors
nafise zarei 1
Hasan Rezaei Haftadur 2
1 PhD Graduate of Quran and Hadith Sciences, University of Tehran, Farabi Campus, Qom, Iran
2 Associate Professor of Quran and Hadith Sciences, University of Tehran, Farabi Campus, Qom, Iran
10.22034/csq.2025.558559.1607
Abstract
Detailed Abstract
Research Objective:
The subject of abrogation (naskh) in the Holy Quran has consistently been one of the most contentious debates among exegetes and specialists of Quranic sciences. In this study, the objective is to investigate and analyze the viewpoints of John Burton, one of the most influential scholars within the Western tradition of Islamic studies, regarding 'Naskh al-Hukm wa-l-Tilawah' (the simultaneous abrogation of both ruling and recitation).
Adopting a critical approach, Burton proposes the concept of abrogation—particularly the abrogation of recitation—as a post hoc (retrospective) rationalization for the loss of certain Quranic texts. He argues that this concept was an attempt by early classical exegetes to explain theological ambiguities such as the 'Prophet's forgetfulness' or 'God causing certain verses to be forgotten.'
To substantiate his claim, Burton refers to several Quranic verses and their respective exegeses, examining texts such as the 'Son of Adam' (Ibn Adam) passage and the 'Well of Ma'unah' (Bi'r Ma'unah) report as primary case studies. This study, while presenting a detailed exposition of Burton's arguments, evaluates the strength and weakness of the narrative (tradition-based) and theological foundations of his theory, and delineates the impact of this critical viewpoint on contemporary debates in Quranic sciences.
Research Methodology:
This research employs a descriptive-analytical methodology. First, John Burton's perspectives regarding the abrogation of both ruling and recitation (Naskh al-Hukm wa-l-Tilawah) are examined. Subsequently, using qualitative content analysis, his citations of Quranic verses and associated commentaries are evaluated. Furthermore, the viewpoints of the exegetes of the two major Islamic schools of thought (Shia and Sunni) regarding the subject of abrogation are compared to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of Burton's arguments. This methodology enables us to achieve a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of Burton's erroneous applications of Quranic verses and their classical exegeses.

Research Findings:
The findings of this research demonstrate that John Burton's arguments concerning Naskh al-Hukm wa-l-Tilawah are constructed upon erroneous citations and imprecise interpretations of Quranic verses. Without taking into account the historical and cultural contexts of the revelation, he has formulated analyses that stand in direct opposition to the consensus of both classical (early) and contemporary (later) exegetes of Shia and Sunni schools of thought.
For instance, regarding texts such as the 'Son of Adam' and the 'Well of Ma'unah' which Burton puts forward as examples of 'missing' verses, there is absolutely no indication of the abrogation of recitation (Naskh al-Tilawah) associated with them in classical Islamic exegeses. Moreover, the concept of 'prophetic forgetfulness' that Burton adduces as one of the catalysts for abrogation is presented in Islamic sources in a way that poses no conflict whatsoever with the preservation of the Quran or the theological doctrine of prophetic infallibility ('Ismah).
Final Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that John Burton's perspective on Naskh al-Hukm wa-l-Tilawah is largely predicated upon subjective, personal interpretations and flawed citations, which fail to align with the viewpoints of mainstream Shia and Sunni exegetes. This approach not only fails to offer a correct understanding of the concept of abrogation in the Quran, but it also risks reinforcing misconceptions regarding the preservation and integrity of the Holy Quran. Consequently, it is recommended that Islamic studies, particularly in the realm of Quranic sciences, rely on authoritative primary sources and the scholarly consensus of classical and modern exegetes to prevent the propagation of such academic misunderstandings.
Keywords
Abrogation
Abrogation of Both Ruling and Recitation
The Two Sects / Both Schools
The Well of Ma'unah
Son of Adam Verse
Infallibility
Subjects
The Holy Qur’an.
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  • Receive Date 08 June 2025
  • Revise Date 24 July 2025
  • Accept Date 22 September 2025
  • Publish Date 22 December 2025