A Methodical Critique of Studies on History of Quran: Emphasizing Structural and Critical Approach

Throughout the history of Islam, numerous works have been written as sources and studies on the authenticity and historical truth of the Holy Quran. These works aim to establish the credibility of the Quran, which is considered the most important source of the Islamic religion. However, there are criticisms regarding the research approaches and methods used in these books and sources. One of the main shortcomings is the failure of Quran scholars to acknowledge the Quran as a historical and social phenomenon. This oversight has led to a weak methodology in studying its history. Therefore, it is necessary to rewrite different aspects of the Quran's history by employing scientific approaches and methods that take into account its historical and social nature. To achieve a more comprehensive understanding, different approaches such as structuralism and critical analysis can be utilized. Structuralism focuses on analyzing the underlying structures and systems within a text, while critical analysis examines the socio-political context and power dynamics that influence the interpretation of the Quran. By incorporating these approaches, researchers can shed light on the historical truth of the Quran. They can critically analyze the sources and methodologies used in previous studies, ensuring a more accurate and nuanced understanding of its history. Paying attention to the structuralist approach in the study of the history of the Quran shows the connection between historical events, the Quran, and the prophetic tradition as the foundation of Islamic civilization; the historical events such as the murder of ʻUthmān ibn ʻAffān and the actions of Ḥajjāj ibn Yūsuf Thaqafī. The critical approach also indicates the necessity of historical criticism of the narrations of Zayd ibn Thābit, Ibn Shihāb Zahrī, Shuʻbat ibn Ḥajjāj, Ibn Abī Dāwūd, Abwʻbyd Qāsim ibn Sallām.