Fact-Based Comprehension in Tafsīr
The Case of the Najrān Delegation (Proposing a Method)
The correct and accurate understanding of Qur’ānic verses depends largely
on identifying it’s context of revelation. Knowing who the initial
addressees of the verses were, as well as understanding their sociological
environment and intellectual world, is a fundamental prerequisite
for grasping the intended meaning. This approach of considering context
is valued not only in classical methods but also in modern exegetical
trends.
The classical tafsīr tradition relies heavily on literal analysis and narration-
centered interpretations, and the scientific contributions of this
method cannot be denied. However, in some cases, the factual circumstances
surrounding the revelation of verses may have been overlooked.
For this reason, the present book proposes a new method, complementary
method to the classical approaches, referred to as Fact-Based Comprehension.
Indeed, there are narrations indicating that the discussions between the
Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) and the Christian delegation from Najrān directly
influenced the revelation of certain Qur’ānic verses. When these
verses are evaluated together with their historical context and the identity
of their first audience, they can be understood in a more comprehensive
manner.
In this study, the methodology of Fact-Based Comprehension within the
framework of Qur’ānic interpretation is first explained. Subsequently,
the narrations concerning the visit of the Christians of Najrān to
Madīnah are classified and examined, and the influence of these reports
on the revelation of the Qur’ān is evaluated from various perspectives.
Keywords: Tafsīr; Methodology; Fact-Based Comprehension; Chronology
of Revelation; Najrān; Āl-i ʿİmrān; Mubāhalah