Amin Ahsan Islahi and Sayyid Qutb on Sūrah as an Integrated Whole: A Brief Methodological Comparison on the Tafsīr of al-Aḥzāb, al-Ghāfir and al-Ṭūr

Abstract

In understanding the messages of the Holy Qurʾān, man refers to the exegetical works by scholars who spend their lives interpreting, uncovering, and exploring the Qurʾanic verses. There are many types of exegetical works, each are represented by different methods, approaches and purposes resulting in diversity of interpretations of the divine text. This study compare two modern tafsīr works, Tadabbur-e-Qurʾān by Amin Ahsan Islahi and Fī Ẓilāl al-Qurʾān by Sayyid Qutb, and their interpretations of three selected sūrah (chapters) of the Qurʾān; sūrah al-Aḥzāb, sūrah al-Muʾmin (also named al-Ghāfīr), and sūrah al-Ṭūr. The comparison looks at the general methodologies of both works, their sectional division of sūrah, their concern for the central theme, and issues and subjects highlighted by each work in interpreting a sūrah.