The Emergence and Development of Sufi Tafsir

This article provides a scholarly analysis of one of the important branches of Islamic studies – Sufism and Qur’anic exegesis (tafsir) – and examines how their mutual integration led to the emergence and development of Sufi exegeses. In particular, the study explores the conceptual distinctions between ta’wil and tafsir, and presents comprehensive definitions of the science of Sufism. The science of tafsir has undergone continuous development from the earliest days of the Qur’anic revelation starting from the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the Companions (Sahabah), and the Followers (Tabi‘in) up to the present day. The Sufi interpretation of the Qur’anic verses also appeared during the early period of the Prophet (peace be upon him) and further developed during the eras of the Companions and the Followers, serving as an important foundation for its formation. Sufi tafsirs are focused on discovering the inner, symbolic, and allegorical meanings of Qur’anic verses. These commentaries rely on spiritual means such as inspiration (ilham), visions (ru’ya), and unveiling (kashf). Allegorical (ishari) exegesis serves to deepen the understanding of the Qur’anic message without contradicting its outward (zahir) meaning. The study identifies five major stages in the historical development of Sufi tafsir: the era of the Prophet and the Companions, the period of the early Sufis, the stage of medieval Sufi exegetes, the flourishing period of Sufi tafsir (13th–18th centuries), the modern era of Sufi interpretation (from the 19th century to the present). Each stage demonstrates a progressive refinement in the form, methodology, and content of Sufi tafsir. The article also examines how contemporary Sufi scholars interpret the Qur’an in a way that integrates its social, ethical, and spiritual dimensions. Furthermore, the article examines the deep-rooted relationship between Sufism and Qur’anic exegesis, analyzing the theoretical and methodological foundations of major isharī commentaries written from the early Islamic period up to contemporary times. It also discusses the essential conditions for the acceptance of Sufi exegesis and presents the perspectives of classical and modern scholars of tafsir regarding this approach.