A Comparative Analysis in the Exegesis of “Evil Words/Women Are for Evil Men; And Good Words/Women Are for Good Men” from Sunni and Shi’ite Perspective

Received: 02/05/2019   |   Accepted: 30/08/2019 Within the recent era, interreligious comparative research studies have been conducted mostly by the Shi’ites with the purpose of critical analysis of Sunni and Shi’ite perspectives. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the 26th verse of Surah an-Nur, about which there are different views by Sunni and Shi’ite commentators, as well as exegetical narratives by Ahl al-Bayt, companions and followers of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). On the one hand, the ideas of Sahabah and followers of the Prophet, and on the other hand, the narratives of Ahl al-Bayt are reported in this article. Afterwards, Shi’ite and Sunni commentators’ views are compared. The results of this comparative analysis showed that the Sunni and Shi’ite interpreters have represented two different perceptions in this regard: Most of Sunni commentators hold that the term “Khabithat” refers to “evil words” whereas most of Shi’ite commentators believe that means “impious women”. There were some drawbacks in the interoperation of both denominations, and after discussion, the Shi’ite perceptions revealed to be more authentic. Furthermore, it was attempted to represent another interpretation which is more compatible with the Qur’anic approach.