A Critical Study of the Application of Dhul-Qarnayn to Historical Figures, Based on Dhul-Qarnayn's Personality in Shiite Interpretive Hadiths

The Holy Qur'an and Islamic traditions have mentioned Dhul-Qarnayn as a historical figure. Commentators have considered finding the historical example of Dhul-Qarnayn to be useful and a proof of the authenticity of the verses and hadiths. Two adaptations have received attention more than other theories: Adaptation to Alexander and Cyrus. The main reason is to pay attention to historical data about the lives of these two characters. The issue of the present research is whether there is evidence for these adaptations in Islamic traditions focusing on Shiite traditions. In the beginning, the historical period of life, name and ancestry, history, extent of power and travels of Dhul-Qarnayn are reported. Then, the opinions of the commentators have been examined according to the historical data and then the traditions about these comparisons. Findings None of the two comparative theories are compatible with the character introduced by Dhul-Qarnayn. His existence and attributes are among the hidden news in history, which were mentioned by revelation, and there is no need to match them to any of the past kings.