A Study of the Principles and Foundations of Mystical Esoteric Commentary from the View of Traditions

People of knowledge use a particular method to interpret the magnificence of revelation, which, in scientific circles, is called with difference names such as mystical interpretation, intuitive interpretation and symbolic interpretation. Mystical or esoteric interpretation, along with exoteric interpretation, is a way to achieve the inner layers of revelation. Among the different theories on the meaning of esoteric interpretation of the Quran, the theories proposed by the people of knowledge are the most similar ones to the words of Holy Prophet's family. Mystical interpretation has different types including longitudinal and horizontal ones, each with different principles and foundations. Infallible Imams indirectly pointed to some of the methods, principles and foundations of esoteric interpretation of the Quran and used them to interpret and expound the inner meanings of Quranic magnificence. However, some researchers, due to their unfamiliarity with the principles and foundations of mystical interpretation, imagine that this type of interpretation contradicts with Infallible Imam's interpretive method and principles. The present paper seeks to eliminate this imagination through reviewing some traditions which deal with esoteric interpretation and comparing the principles and methods of mystical interpretation with infallible Imam's interpretive principles and methods.