Evaluating and criticizing the interpretive theory of Muhammad Abed Al-Jabri based on the criteria of textual competence

Most interpreters have their own theory of interpreting the Holy Qur’an, which is in line with the their goals. Knowing the textual competency will give the interpreter a good tool for achieving the goals of interpretation systematically and correctly. Muhammad Abed Al-Jaberi is of those interpreters who arranged his interpretive books according to the descending of the Surahs in the Holy Quran, having his own interpretive theory. This study, following an analytical approach aims to delve into his theory. The following are the results of analyzing the textual competency of Muhammad Abed Al-Jaberi: 1- internal harmony and compatibility (there is no incompatibility between the Surahs of the Holy Quran and its teachings, 2. Having a comprehensive outlook (the Holy Qur’an on the whole has a universal outlook), 3. According to Muhammad Abed Al-Jabri, there is no contradiction and inconsistency in a Holy text. According to Al-Jaberi, the comprehensiveness of the Quranic text indicates that it is descended for all ages and it will be eternal. Finally, we have found that the Al-Jaberi's textual competence theory is not compatible with the traditional Shia interpreters, believing in an interpretation according to the needs of the Arabs at the time of revelation of the Holy Quran.