Muḥkam and Mutashābih: An Analytical Study of al-Ṭabarī's and al-Zamakhsharī's Interpretations of Q.3:7

Abstract

This essay is devoted to the study of al-Ṭabarī's and al-Zamakhsharī's interpretations of Q.3:7. The problem of their exegetical methods, as a consequence of which they differ markedly in their findings, is a major concern herein. Using phenomenological, comparative and analytical approaches, we conclude that exegetical differences result from the methods they use and their sectarian tendencies. It is also emphasised that al-Tabarī and al-Zamakhsharī fall victim to methodological inaccuracy and sectarian reductionism respectively.