أنواع تفسير القرآن بالقرآن عند الشيخ الشنقيطي

THE TYPES OF INTERPRETING THE QUR’AN BY THE QUR’AN ACCORDING TO SHAYKH AL-SHANQĪṬĪ

Abstract

This study presents an introductory overview of the concept of Tafsīr al-Qur’ān bi al-Qur’ān (interpreting the Qur’an by the Qur’an) as articulated by Shaykh Muḥammad al-Amīn al-Shanqīṭī. This method is regarded by al-Shanqīṭī as the most authentic and reliable approach to Qur’anic interpretation, since the Qur’an itself is the primary and most authoritative source for explaining its meanings. The Qur’anic text is characterized by internal coherence, where verses complement, clarify, and explain one another across different contexts.

According to this approach, ambiguity, generality, or multiplicity of meaning found in one verse is often resolved by reference to another verse. Al-Shanqīṭī highlights various patterns through which the Qur’an explains itself, such as clarifying what is stated briefly elsewhere, specifying what appears general, identifying the intended meaning of a potentially ambiguous term, or explaining a command, event, or promise mentioned in another passage. In some instances, the Qur’an refers to an argument or proof implicitly, while its explicit demonstration is found in another verse. Likewise, descriptions and attributes of a single concept may be dispersed across several passages, collectively forming a comprehensive understanding.

This methodological framework underscores the unity and consistency of the Qur’anic discourse and reflects its divine eloquence and precision. By grounding interpretation primarily within the Qur’an itself, al-Shanqīṭī’s approach minimizes subjective speculation and reinforces a text-centered understanding of revelation. Consequently, Tafsīr al-Qur’ān bi al-Qur’ān serves as a foundational principle for Qur’anic studies and provides a sound basis upon which other interpretive methods may be built.