Description, Explanation, and Comparative-Historical Critique of Literalist and Interpretive Readings of the “Majīʾ al-Rabb” Verses from a Phenomenological Perspective

Document Type : Academicm and Research

Authors

1 Faculty of Theology, University of Qom

2 Faculty of Theology at the University of Qom

10.22091/ptt.2026.13544.2495

Abstract

The verses of "the Lord's coming" (Qur'an 2:210, 89:22) are challenging, leading to literalist and allegorical interpretations. This study analyzes their historical evolution and influencing factors (pre-Qur'anic, narrative, theological), examining the possibility of reconciling mystical understanding with divine transcendence using a phenomenological and comparative-historical approach. The method involves describing the lived experience of early Arabs and a historical critique of the evidence. Findings show the initial understanding, influenced by pre-Islamic imagistic culture, favored God's tangible presence. From the 2nd century AH, non-corporeal interpretations like divine power's manifestation became dominant with the Mu'tazilites and Ash'arites. Literalists cite narratives and Biblical parallels, while allegorical interpreters use rational arguments and definitive verses to reject anthropomorphism. Integrating phenomenological and historical perspectives, this study concludes that while metaphorical interpretation is possible, reconciling it with divine transcendence and the initial audience's historical reading faces fundamental challenges. Historical evidence indicates the prevalence of literalist understandings during revelation, though allegorical tendencies were nascent.e revelation period, although allegorical tendencies were also forming from the very beginning.

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Comparative Interpretation Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 March 2026

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