The Tradition of Istisal (Instant Punishment) and the Ummah of Muhammad (PBUH) (Comparative Analysis of al-Manar and al-Mizan Perspectives)

The purpose of this study is the comparative analysis of the exegetical views in al-Manar and al-Mizan about the tradition of Istisal (instant punishment) in the Ummah of Muhammad (PBUH). In this regard, the present research seeks an answer to the question on whether the tradition of instant punishment can be practiced in the Ummah of Muhammad (PBUH). Therefore, the theoretical principles of the discussion are first mentioned; and then the relationship between the tradition of Istisal and other divine traditions such as Imhal (giving opportunity to the wrongdoer), sending prophets, and repentance are explained. Afterwards, by classifying verses on the tradition of Istisal, the viewpoints in the exegetical books al-Manar and al-Mizan are comparatively analyzed. The results of this comparative analysis show that there is disagreement between Allameh Tabatabaii and Rashid Riza on the interpretation of the verses about Istisal tradition. According to the views of Allameh Tabatabaii, the tradition of Istisal is viable in the Ummah of Muhammad, while form the standpoint of Rashid Riza and other renown commentators, it is not possible due to some reasons. In conclusion, the two aforementioned arguments reach one common result, that is to say, Istisal or instant punishment cannot be practiced in the Ummah of Muhammad. Received: 3/10/2018   |   Accepted: 22/4/2019