An Examining Shaykh Tabarsi’s Narrative-Based Approach in Preferring the Correct Recitation with Emphasis on the Recitations (Qira’at) of Ahl al-Bayt (AS)

Shaykh Tabarsi posited that the differences in Quranic recitations (qira’at) arose subsequent to the Quran’s revelation. Employing a narrative-driven methodology, he aimed to ascertain or, at the very least, favor the recitation that was divinely revealed. His evaluation of recitation preferences was neither simplistic nor prejudiced; on occasion, he prioritized alternative recitations (qira’at) over those attributed to Ahl al-Bayt (AS), substantiating his selections with rationale. Nevertheless, he predominantly viewed the recitations of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) as more precise and preferable for a variety of reasons, which this study intends to investigate. The objective of this research is to present a novel framework for favoring recitations from Tabarsi’s perspective, one that has not been documented in other literature, and to analyze it in light of the numerous pertinent examples found in his exegesis, Majma’ al-Bayan. The central inquiry is: What criteria and foundational principles does Shaykh Tabarsi primarily utilize when determining the correct recitation, and what are the underlying reasons? This article employs a descriptive-analytical approach to scrutinize Shaykh Tabarsi’s narrative-based methodology in selecting the correct recitation, particularly focusing on the readings of Ahl al-Bayt (AS). In addition to elucidating this methodology, the article addresses its importance from Tabarsi’s perspective and illustrates its application with examples and the rationale behind his preferences. Ultimately, through an analysis of Tabarsi’s commentary and his interpretations of various verses, it is concluded that Shaykh Tabarsi places significant emphasis on the narrative-based approach and the readings of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) in his selection of the correct recitation. For him, the hadith and narrations of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) serve as the paramount and most conclusive criteria in the realm of Quranic recitation. This conclusion arises from the fact that, among all recitations, the readings of Ahl al-Bayt (AS) rescue an individual from doubt in choosing the best recitation, as they are based on credible and universally accepted sources—namely, the narrations, the Quran, and consensus—which identify Ahl al-Bayt (AS) as the best models and inheritors of the Prophethood. Thus, relying on their recitations is the best option for selecting the correct recitation.