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Chapter 5: Current mis-interpretation of al-Qur’an. |
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4. Forsaking the opinion of the companions in interpreting al-Qur’an.
If al-Qur’an is the best guide and Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam provides the best explanation, then the companions radhiallahu 'anhum is the best generation that understood al-Qur’an because they experienced the occasions that caused the revelation of certain verses. They had the opportunity to watch live telecast how Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam explained the meaning of certain verses either directly or indirectly. They also put the teaching of al-Qur’an into practice as it was revealed in stages until it became part of them.
The revelation of al-Qur’an in stages was important to strengthen and motivate Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam. It also provided refutation to the kuffar as they invented allegation after allegation. This benefited not only Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam but also the companions as explained by Allah:
And those who disbelieve say: “Why is not the Qur’an revealed to him all at once?” Thus (it is sent down in parts), that We may strengthen your heart thereby. And We have revealed it to you gradually, in stages. And no example or similitude do they bring (to oppose or find fault inyou or in this Qur’an), but We reveal to you the truth (against that similitude or example) and the better explanation thereof. [al-Furqan 25:32-33]
And (it is) a Qur’an which We have divided (into parts), in order that you might recite it to men at intervals. And We have revealed it by stages. [al-Isra’ 17:106][1]
Based on the above factors, the companions radhiallahu 'anhum have a special attribute that could not be simply neglected. Furthermore, Allah complimented them, pleased with them and bestowed them with paradise:
And the foremost to embrace Islam of Muhajirun (those who migrated from Makkah to al-Madinah) and the Ansar (the citizens of al-Madinah who helped and gave aid to the Muhajirun) and also those who followed them exactly (in faith). Allah is well-pleased with them as they are well-pleased with Him. He has prepared for them Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise), to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success. [Surah al-Taubah, 9:100][2]
Allah would not be pleased with the companions if they mis-understood al-Qur’an. The above verse provides strong evidence that the companions are the best people in understanding al-Qur’an.
Therefore, when interpreting al-Qur’an it is important for us to refer to the opinions of the companions to see how they understood a verse. In conclusion, to have a complete understanding of a verse we need to refer to other verses in al-Qur’an and the authentic as-sunnah based on the understanding of the companions. If there were any contradictions between a recent interpretation and the interpretation of the companions, then the interpretation of the companions prevails!
This is vital since what is understood now could be so much different from what was understood when al-Qur’an was revealed. For example the word “Jihad” is interpreted today as seeking knowledge, improving economic condition and others. However, the companions never understood the word “jihad” as we understand it now. To the companions radhiallahu 'anhum, “jihad” was simply going into the battlefield to uphold Islam. Seeking knowledge and improving economic condition are important means to facilitate jihad but it would not do any good if the ummah is not ready to go to the battlefields. [3]
The author would like to remind that in applying “the understanding of the companions” we have to look at the categories of issues that we are analysing. If we are interpreting a verse discussing about matters that are non-optional to human being (like news of the unseen, aqidah and ibadah) then the understanding and the implementation would be constant with no changes allowed. However if we are interpreting verses discussing about our daily lives involving relationship between human being (like administration of the country and war strategies) then the understanding would be constant with modified implementation allowed to incorporate current changes (refer to the Third Mis-interpretation) [1] The benefit of gradual revelation of al-Qur’an is not confined to just the companions. It is extended to all of us. Thus in implementing an Islamic law or explaining an issue, it should be carried our in stages so it could be comprehended by the society and accepted by them willingly. [2] The verse: “…and also those who followed them exactly (in faith)…” shows that the later Muslims have the opportunity to attain paradise and high standing if we follow the footsteps of the companions. [3] For further reading about “Jihad”, please refer to Apakah Jihad Di Jalan Allah (Buku 1&2) (Jahabersa, Johor Bahru 2003).
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Hafiz Firdaus Abdullah
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