Pathology of Sufi Interpretation of the Holy Quran

In the methodology of interpretation, there are two methods of external interpretation and internal interpretation. External interpretation is based on customary and logical meanings, and internal interpretation is known among Sufis and mystics as mystical interpretation. In the field of epistemology, mysticism has relied on taste and enlightenment in discovering truth more than reason and reasoning. Mysticism has two cultural and social aspects, and Sufism is the social manifestation of mysticism. Mystics use interpretation in the inner meaning of the Qur’an as opposed to interpretation, which is the outer meaning. The way to reach interpretation is not considered as intellect, but as discovery and intuition, which the seeker achieves different understandings and interpretations according to the difference of circumstances and times, and the difference of degrees of conduct. The Sufi and mystical currents in the interpretation of the Holy Quran are different based on the ideas that have ruled the mind, thought and practice of the Sufis and mystics in each period. Sufi commentaries are distinct from other types of commentary, both in terms of content, which is a reflection of their thoughts and ideas, and in terms of the variety of styles, which range from philosophical ideas to popular sermons and literature to narrative and poetry. Therefore, throughout history, the Sufi and mystical interpretive current, on the one hand, has always been considered by the commentators of the Holy Quran in order to respond to the epistemological needs of the audience and its spiritual and educational aspects, and on the other hand, due to deviations in mystical interpretations, they have had some problems and misinterpretations in the basic principles, methodological and final areas. In this study entitled “Pathology of Sufi interpretation of the Holy Quran”, these problems will be examined.