Philosophical Foundations of the Use of Imagination (Allegory) in the Qur'an

Document Type : Original Article

Author

- Faculty member of Isfahan farhangian University

Abstract

Allegory is one of the most important semantic and theological aspects used in the Qur'an. The current paper has been authored with the aim of explaining why allegory (imagination) is used in the Qur'an in terms of ontology and epistemology. Analysis and inference are the methods used in this paper. The two main propositions that the article seeks to explain are: 1. Qur'anic allegories do not have a valid or virtual nature; That is, they are not mere examples to facilitate understanding (the ontological aspect). 2. Qur'anic allegories are degraded facts that are the subject, principles and materials of imagination to understand the Qur'anic teachings and make understanding possible (epistemological aspect). In the Qur'an, allegory is used to describe and liken sensible facts to tangible manifestations; because the realities of the perceptible world are suitable manifestations for depicting the unseen world and spiritual truths. Allegory is an important activity of the imagination to understand and comprehend problems, which is done by retrieving, combining, or creating exampled (imaginary) forms appropriate to the intended concepts. The Qur'an is the book of guidance for human beings, and not only the teachings contained in it, but also the way to explain those teachings is a proof and guide for human beings. Divine will and providence in using allegory in the Qur'an bring us blessed teachings.

Keywords

References

  1. References

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Quranic Science Studies
Volume 3, Issue 2 - Serial Number 8
September 2021
Pages 7-25

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