The Comparative Study of the 80th Verse of Surah an-Naml from Sunni and Shi’ite Perspective with a Critical Emphasis on the Idea of Infeasibility of Hearing by the Deceased

An examination of the holy verses of the Qur’an from the perspective of Sunni and Shi’ite commentators can assist us to infer an appropriate and comprehensive interpretation of the Qur’anic verses, resolve likely disagreements, and criticize the viewpoints of both sects. Despite their common beliefs, there are some disagreements between Sunnis and Shi’ites on the interpretation of the 80th verse of Surah an-Naml. Some commentators take this holy verse as a verdict for “the infeasibility of hearing by the deceased” while some others reject this view. This article uses a critical and analytical method to make a comparative analysis between the views of two sects. The results of the study reveal that first, according to Allameh Tabatabaii’s views, there is no metaphor in this holy verse; second, it is proved that even if metaphor is admitted in the verse, it conveys the infeasibility of gaining benefit or life not hearing; third, it is revealed that even in the case of admitting this idea it is against some other verses in the Qur’an and traditions even existing in Sunni sources. It is concluded that based on all the above evidences, this holy verse not only does not confirm the idea of the infeasibility of the deceased but also rejects that.