Position and Function of Intellect in the Interpretation of the Quran from the Perspective of Textualists

This article deals with the possibility and conditions of the contribution of intellect in the interpretation of the Quran according to textualists. The object of this study is the analysis of the claim and evaluation of the arguments of textualists towards the function of intellect in the interpretation of the Quran. It is an analytical and descriptive survey of the issue taking a critical approach towards the study of textualists views and proofs. Textualist interpreters emphasize the centrality of the literal aspect of religious texts including the holy Quran and traditions when understanding divine intent, giving at the maximum amere instrumental role to intellect. Adhering to extreme textualism, the People of Hadith “Ahl al- Hadith” do not give any role to intellectual acquired knowledge in understanding verses. Asharites practically prefer the literal texts to any thing else, and Akhbariyya have the same view as the People of Hadith in denying the validity and function of intellect. People of Separation “Ashab al- Tafkik” also recognize only the natural intellect –based on their own terminology- in interpretation, denying the validity of demonstrative reason. Textualists have put forth four series of arguments towards proving their claim. However, none of these is capable to establish their claim or deny the validity of intellect in the interpretation of the Quran.