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Chapter 5: Current mis-interpretation of al-Qur’an. |
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5. Interpreting some verses as metaphorical verses (Majaz).
In Arabic some words carry literal meaning whereas others carry metaphorical meanings (majaz). When interpreting al-Qur’an, we should not assume a word is used metaphorically unless these conditions are fulfilled: 1. There is supporting evidence that the word should be understood metaphorically. 2. Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam explained it as a metaphoric word or the companions understood so.
Both these conditions must be fulfilled before we can say a word is used in a metaphoric manner because Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam would not have left something unexplained if it needed further clarification. If Rasulullah or the companions did not explain that it was a metaphoric phrase or if they were silent on the matter then the word should be understood literally. For example, let us analyse this verse:
(Allah) said: “O lblis (Satan)! What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands. Are you too proud (to fall prostrate to Adam) or are you one of the high exalted?” [Shad 38:75]
Most of the recent generation understood the word “Both My Hands” as a metaphoric phrase. Thus they interpreted its meaning (ta’wil) into a different thing – power, blessing etc.
However Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘alaihi Wasallam never explained the phrase as a metaphoric phrase that need to be interpreted into other meaning. The companions also never understood it as a metaphoric phrase. They understood it literally. It is Allah’s hand without resembling any of His creation.
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Hafiz Firdaus Abdullah
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