Delving into the Meaning of Al-Dhikr in Verse 44 of Sūat al-Naḥl

Many of the interpreters believe that what is meant by al-Dhikr (reminder, remembrance) in verse 44 of Sūrat al-Naḥl, is the Qur’an. The believers in this viewpoint are divided into two groups: the first group that include a vast expectrum of interpreters express this view definitely. The second group who, while accepting the concept of Qur’an for al-Dhikr, are seeking to solve the apparent problem resulting from this viewpoint. On the other hand, some interpreters have considered al-Dhikr to mean the Sunna of the Prophet (S. A.). Examining the reasons for this viewpoint indicates the deficiency in their accuracy in the context and apparent meaning of the verse. Thus, after validation of the evidences provided by the interpreters and by deliberation on the external meaning and the context of the verse and delving into the word al-Dhikr, the present writing has proved that the first group by making a change in the structure of the verse and diverting from the external meaning and the second group due to lack of sufficient evidences, have not been able to present a correct understanding of the meaning of al-Dhikr. In the end, the writers of this research have viewed “exegetical revelation” as the meaning of al-Dhikr in this verse due to its compatibility with the apparent meaning of the verse, which seems to be mentioned as “wisdom” in other verses. By accepting the viewpoint of “exegetical revelation” for al-Dhikr, it would be proved that in this view, al-Dhikr is different from mā nuzzila ilayhim (that which has been sent down to them) and the apparent problem of the verse is solved.