The Comparative Analysis of the Exegetical Method of Avicenna and Sheikh-i Ishraq

The ideas of Avicenna and Sheikh-i Ishraq as the scholars of Peripatetic and Illumination Philosophy have always received the critical attention of the reviewers. One of the most important discussions in this regard is the exegetical method of the above philosophers: Sheikh-i Ishraq, contrary to Avicenna, does not have an independent exegesis but his exegetical ideas can be inferred from his collection of writings. In fact, Avicenna has a completely rational trend whereas the exegetical trend of Sheikh-i Ishraq is mystical. The exegetical method of Avicenna has been rational while Sheikh-i Ishraq has often used an innovative method. Furthermore, Avicenna has rarely applied the Qur’an to the Qur’an method in his rational arguments. The abovementioned philosophers have one thing in common in their commentaries and that is impartiality in interpretation and not using the traditions in the interpretation of the Qur’an.