YT26 How to understand the Quran? Why we need a methodology? by Dr. Hany Atchan

Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses the importance of using the correct methodology to understand the Quran. They critique traditional interpretations, particularly those based on the works of At-Tabarii, which approach the Quran as if it were a collection of poems, instead of recognizing it as a divine communication tool. The speaker highlights that the Quran provides its own methodology for interpretation, emphasizing the need for proper qualifications to engage with it. By examining the Quranic stories and understanding key principles, the speaker calls for a more accurate and meaningful approach to understanding the Quran's message.

Takeaways

• 😀 The traditional methodology of interpreting the Quran, particularly through Tafseer At-Tabarii, is flawed because it treats the Quran like a collection of poems rather than a divine communication instrument.
• 😀 At-Tabarii's Tafseer relied on three main sources: the opinions of certain scholars, the language of Arabs, and corrupted older scriptures, which led to misinterpretations of the Quran.
• 😀 The Quran should not be treated as a literary text; it is an instrument created by Allah with its own specific methodology for understanding.
• 😀 The Quran provides its own methodology, similar to a user manual, to guide how it should be interpreted and used effectively.
• 😀 Just as academic fields like bio-chemistry and sociology have their own methodologies, the Quran requires a unique, Allah-provided methodology for proper interpretation.
• 😀 Proper qualifications are essential to interpreting the Quran. Without the right qualifications, individuals may mislead themselves and others.
• 😀 Quranic stories play a key role in unlocking the meanings of the Quran and defining its terms correctly, a concept often overlooked by traditional scholars.
• 😀 Interpreting the Quran requires recognizing Allah’s definitions for terms used within it, not relying on the language of Arabs or external sources.
• 😀 The principle of relevance in the Quran stresses that no part of it is extraneous, and interpreters must avoid deeming parts of verses as irrelevant.
• 😀 Contemporary preachers who rely on outdated interpretations may lead people in the wrong direction, as their interpretations are often based on flawed methodologies.

Q & A

What is Tafseer, and how has it traditionally been used to interpret the Quran?

Tafseer is the interpretation or exegesis of the Quran, traditionally based on the opinions of scholars like Abdullah Ibn Abbas, the Arabic language, and corrupted versions of earlier scriptures. The methodology used to interpret the Quran was historically similar to interpreting poetry, which has limitations when trying to understand the Quran's divine message.

Why is the methodology used by traditional Quranic commentators considered flawed?

The traditional methodology treats the Quran as a collection of poems or texts that need explanation, which is a mistake. The Quran is not a human product or poetry, but a divine instrument designed by Allah (swt) to guide humanity, and its interpretation should reflect this unique nature.

How does the Rosetta Stone analogy relate to understanding the Quran?

The Rosetta Stone helped decipher Egyptian hieroglyphics by providing a key in the form of a royal decree in three languages. Similarly, the Quranic stories serve as keys to understanding the meanings of terms and concepts in the Quran, offering clarity that helps unlock the divine message.

What role do the Quranic stories play in its interpretation?

Quranic stories are integral to understanding the meanings of words and terms in the Quran. They provide the necessary context and clarity to unlock the true message of the Quran, helping readers avoid misinterpretations based on external or irrelevant sources.

Why should the language of the Arabs and prior scriptures not be relied upon when interpreting the Quran?

The Quran warns against relying on the language of poets or the corrupted versions of earlier scriptures for understanding its message. The Quran must be interpreted based on its own terms and definitions, as provided by Allah (swt), rather than external linguistic or historical sources.

What are the key principles for interpreting the Quran correctly?

Key principles include the relevance of every part of the Quran, ensuring that no content is deemed extraneous, and defining terms and concepts based on the Quran itself. The methodology for interpretation should be intrinsic to the Quran and align with its divine purpose.

What qualifications are necessary to engage with the Quran properly?

Just as a pilot needs training before flying, interpreting the Quran requires proper qualifications. These include understanding the Quran's message, using the correct methodology, and having the right mindset. Without these qualifications, there is a risk of misinterpretation or misleading others.

Why is it important to question the interpretations offered by preachers on platforms like YouTube and TV?

Many preachers today rely on interpretations based on methodologies that have been in place for over 1,200 years. These interpretations may not align with the divine nature of the Quran and could lead to misconceptions. It is important to critically evaluate whether these interpretations are truly based on the Quran’s intended message.

How does the correct methodology ensure that the Quran is understood as an instrument rather than just a text?

The correct methodology treats the Quran as an instrument of divine communication, not just a literary text. It recognizes that the Quran’s purpose is to guide humanity, and the methodology ensures that the text is engaged with in a way that reflects its intended function and divine origin.

What impact has traditional Tafseer had on modern Quranic understanding?

Traditional Tafseer, based on older methodologies, has contributed to confusion and misinterpretation of the Quran over the centuries. Many of the interpretations relied on assumptions that do not align with the Quran’s divine nature, leading to a misunderstanding of its true message.