Comparative Methods of Scriptural Interpretation Among Shiite Sects

Abstract

This study summarizes the interpretation method among Shiite sects, focusing on four main groups: the Twelver Imamis, the Ismailis, the Republicans, and the Zaidis. The Imamis believe that interpretation is based on the Quran, then the sayings of the Prophet, and then their infallible imams. They reject the hadiths of the Companions and rely on esoteric interpretation and interpretation. The Ismailis, on the other hand, rely primarily on esoteric interpretation, believing that the Quran has an apparent and an inner meaning, and that the inner meaning is the true intended meaning. They interpret everything according to specific symbols. Meanwhile, the republicans—followers of Mahmoud Muhammad Taha—believe that true Islam has not yet been implemented, that collective law is temporary, and that humanity can receive direct divine guidance through what they call "individual law." They interpret texts to serve their own agendas while truncating the original texts. The study highlights how the influence of philosophy and theology, along with a deviation in the understanding of texts, has led to the emergence of deviant interpretive approaches far removed from the understanding of the righteous predecessors.