The Impact of Philosophical Rationalism on the Methodology of Tafsir al-Manār
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12928/taqaddumi.v6i1.15490Keywords:
Contemporary Tafsir, Islamic Philosophy, Rationalism, Tafsir al-Manār, Reason and RevelationAbstract
This study examines rationalism as a branch of philosophy and its influence on shaping the character and methodology of Tafsir al-Manār. Utilizing a qualitative-descriptive approach based on library research, this study analyzes how Muḥammad ‘Abduh and Rashīd Riḍā positioned reason as an epistemological instrument for understanding the Qur'an without negating the authority of revelation. The article demonstrates that the rationalism of Al-Manār facilitated a shift in exegesis from a textual-narrative (rijāliyah) approach towards a rational, ethical, and social one. This approach contributed to the emergence of contemporary exegesis responsive to the challenges of modernity, such as developments in science and social problems. However, the article also highlights criticisms of excessive rationalistic tendencies for their potential to reduce the transcendent dimension of revelation. Consequently, Tafsir al-Manār plays a significant role in shaping a moderate exegetical paradigm that balances rationality, spirituality, and the Islamic scholarly tradition.
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