Imam Reza's (as) Interpretative Methodology

Interpretative methodology is one of the most important sciences in the field of Quran Studies, which can extract the understanding and interpretation of Quran through different methods. The interpreter’s degree of acquaintance with the author and the text also has a direct relation with this understanding. This feature in the majestic Infallibles (as), due to their closeness to the text of Quran and the realm of Wahy [(divine revelation)], increases the importance of studying interpretive Traditions in two dimensions. First, regarding the transfer of content and second, as acquiring a model from their interpretive method. Imam Reza’s (as) language and responses are with Quran and derived from it. Therefore, the need for an Infallible’s (as) explanation in interpreting the Quran is vital, and a disregard [towards their comments] will result in deviation and departure from the true meaning of the verses of Quran. Imam Reza’s (as) interpretative methodology has emerged in different types such as [in terms of] guidance, application of credibility, and application of practice and behavior, including the actions and behaviors of one’s own and others. In some instances, part of a verse has been invoked, instead of a whole verse or verses. It can be said that the interpretative methodology of the Infallibles (as), although in some instances can be modeled by others, does not have universality and cannot be extended to ordinary people.