Negotiating Authority in Qur’anic Exegesis: The Epistemological Function of Isrā’īliyyāt Narratives from the People of the Book

Abstract

This study discusses the existence of the history of isrāīlīyat in the interpretation of the Qur'an, which are stories derived from Jewish and Christian traditions, which are widely used by mufasir in explaining the verses of the Qur'an. The presence of Isrāīlīyat in the tafsir is inseparable from the role of the Scribes who embraced Islam and carried their religious heritage, as well as the intense interaction between the early Muslim community and the people of the Kitabi. The focus of this study is on the principle inherited by the Prophet Muhammad PBUH in responding to the narration of the Scribes, namely "do not justify and do not lie" (tawaqqūf), which then becomes an epistemological guideline in accepting or rejecting the history of isrāīlīyat. The main data source is taken from the main books of Qur'an Science as well as classical and modern tafsir books. The data were analyzed descriptive-analytically, examining the relationship between the history of Isrāīlīyat and the involvement of the People of the Book in its dissemination. The results of the study show that scholars have different views on isrāīlīyat, but in general they agree that the narration cannot be used as a basis in terms of creed and law. Isrāīlīyat can only be used as a complement to the narrative provided that it does not contradict Islamic principles, has a traceable sanad, and does not damage the image of the prophets. This study emphasizes the importance of being selective and critical in responding to narratives originating from outside the Islamic tradition, in order to maintain the purity of the interpretation of the Qur'an and the integrity of Islamic teachings. This principle remains relevant to be applied in today's context full of cross-cultural and religious information exchange.