The Study of Practical Theology in the Quranic Stories through Descriptive and Interpretive Approaches: The Case Studies of Joseph and Moses Stories

Since the description and explanation of the pious people's social behaviors are known as the duties of the theologians of practical theology, a question is raised from the perspective of practical theology, how we can describe and explain the behaviors of the characters of the Quranic stories. Undoubtedly, it can help us in explanation of some principles, basics, and objectives of practical theology in the Islamic world. In doing so, in this paper, some behaviors of two significant Quranic characters, namely Joseph and Moses have been described and explained on the basis of the Quranic verses, Imamites traditions, and the commentators' views. The findings indicate that although the main intention of prophets was Allah's satisfaction, they used different methods according to their specific goals. For example, by interpreting the dreams of two prisoners, Joseph attempted to explain the principles of religion; through accepting the responsibility of keeping the treasury, he played a key role in rescuing people from famine and hunger; or by neglecting his brothers' faults, he revealed the magnificence of forgiveness. Moses also through helping a weak person and Jethro's daughters, showed the importance of helping others; through releasing the Israelites from Pharaoh, paved the way for Allah's servitude; and by burning the golden calf in fire, he proved the weakness of the false gods to rescue his people from aberration.