Methods of using the Imam's interpretative traditions by Sunni scholars

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Assistant professor at Sistan University, Iran.

2 Associate professor at Qom University, Iran.

Abstract

Innocent and immaculate Ah al Bait (AS) had inherited Prophet's (S) cognizance and could provide proper guidance to followers.  Their guidance had been partly presented in the descriptive narratives left from them.  A considerable number of Sunni scholars - as recognized companions and followers - have spent great deal in spreading the words left from Ah al Bait (AS). They have applied these words in many ways in their writings.
This article used descriptive-attributive method taking a Quran-Narrative approach in its study of the interpretation of narratives and non-narratives provided by Sunni scholars in their books.  This article analyzed and classified how Sunni scholars had benefited from narratives quoted from Ah al Bait (AS).  The typology and classification of narrative usages discussed in this article include: 1) preferential usage where narratives from Ah al Bait (AS) are preferred over other narratives; 2) confirmatory usage where Ah al Bait (AS) narratives are confirmed by narratives from Prophet (S) or others; 3) negatory usage; 4) enfeebling usage; and 5) disparaging usage.

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