The Principles of Quranic Exegesis Related to the Mutashabih Attributes according to Imam Shah Waliullah Dehlawi: A Thematic Study

قواعد التفسير المتعلقة بمتشابه الصفات عند الإمام شاه ولي الله الدهلوي: دراسة موضوعية

Abstract

Imam Shah Waliullah Dehlawi, a prominent scholar in the Indian subcontinent, is renowned for his contributions as an exegete, hadith scholar, jurist, and sufi. His profound impact on the principles of exegesis is evident in his extensive writings. This article discusses the principles of Quranic Exegesis by Imam Shah Waliullah Dehlawi regarding the mutashabihat, particularly the mutashabih attributes. This article explores the benefits of the inclusion of mutashabihat in the Holy Quran, the views of scholars on these verses, and Imam Dehlawi's stance on them, especially concerning the mutashabih attributes. It concludes that the fundamental approach to understanding the mutashabihat is to refer them back to the muhkam verses and the established Sunnah or to refrain from their interpretation i.e. tawaqquf. Engaging deeply in the true mutashabihat should not involve definitive assertions, however employing reason for non-true mutashabihat is essential. The fundamental principle regarding the mutashabihat attributes is to consign their meanings to Allah (i.e. tafwid) and refrain from delving into them. However, it is permissible to interpret all of Allah’s attributes (i.e. taweel) in a manner befitting His majesty, provided such interpretation is made tentatively and without asserting certainty, while avoiding any exaggeration in their discussion. Understanding Allah's mutashabih attributes requires deep knowledge that transcends ordinary comprehension, a task for the Rasikhoon (those firmly grounded in knowledge)