Categorization of the Shiite Exegetical Methods and Tendencies

The present article is concerned to find an answer to this question: What is the categorization and structure of the exegetical methods and tendencies? The knowledge of this problem leads at least to the evaluation of the existing exegeses and knowledge of some of their weak points and strong points; it will also help make judgments on the exegeses. To find an answer to this question, first a definition has been given of the exegetical methods and tendencies by using library resources and reviewing the relevant literature; and then, based on this definition the existing Shiite exegeses have been categorized. Exegetical tendency consists in the orientations, which arise from the exegete's goals and concerns, his specialty and knowledge, or the expectations of the readers. The exegetical method consists in the way in which the interpretation of the Quran is offered. Based on this definition, the Shiite exegetical tendencies have been categorized into six groups: 1. Literary 2. Jurisprudential 3. Theological 4. Philosophical 5. Ordinal 6. Social. The Shiite exegetical methods have also been categorized into the following groups: 1.Language of exegesis 2.the way in which the exegesis is offered 3. And thematic exegeses.