امام قشیریؒ کی تفسیر لطائف الاشارات کے منہج و اسلوب کا علمی و تحقیقی جائزہ : An Academic and Analytical Review of the Methodology and Style of Imam al-Qushayri's Tafsir Lata'if al-Isharat"

Ijaz ul Haq; Dr Badshah Rehman; Dr. Najmul Hassan

Authors

Ijaz ul Haq PhD Scholar, Department of Islamic Studies and Religious Affairs, University of Malakand
Dr Badshah Rehman Associate Professor, Department of Islamic Studies and Religious Affairs, University of Malakand
Dr. Najmul Hassan Associate Professor, Department of Islamic Studies and Religious Affairs, University of Malakand

Keywords:

Lata’if al-Isharat, Imam al-Qushayri, Muhasabah al-Nafs, muraqabah, Nafs al-Ammarah, Nafs al-Lawwamah, Nafs al-Mutma’innah, spirituality

Abstract

In Islamic studies, the interpretation (Tafsir) of the Holy Qur'an has always held a central and important position. From the time of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ until today, Muslim scholars have adopted different methods to explain the Qur'an. These include linguistic, rhetorical, juristic, theological, philosophical, and mystical (Sufi) approaches. Among these, the mystical or Sufi method is unique because it focuses on the inner and spiritual meanings of the Qur'an.The main purpose of Sufi interpretation is not only to explain the outward meaning of the Qur'anic words but also to understand their deeper spiritual message. Through this approach, readers are guided towards self-purification (Tazkiyah al-Nafs), spiritual growth, and the knowledge of Allah (Ma'rifah).One of the most important and well-known works in this field is Lata'if al-Isharat, a three-volume Qur'anic commentary written by Imam Abu al-Qasim al-Qushayri (d. 465 AH). Imam al-Qushayri is regarded as one of the leading scholars of both Qur'anic interpretation and Islamic mysticism (Tasawwuf). His famous book Al-Risalah al-Qushayriyyah is one of the earliest and most reliable works on the principles and stages of Sufism.His spiritual insight is also clearly reflected in Lata'if al-Isharat. This commentary is not only an explanation of the Qur'an but also a valuable source of spiritual and moral guidance. One of its unique features is that Imam al-Qushayri explains the concepts, terminology, and teachings of Sufism through Qur'anic verses with strong evidence. He presents these ideas with great scholarly depth and spiritual wisdom, making the book beneficial for both scholars and seekers of spirituality.

Imam al-Qushayri's Lata'if al-Isharat is also a comprehensive guide to spiritual, psychological, and moral development. In this commentary, he explains the inner reform of human beings from intellectual, spiritual, and psychological perspectives. Through the verses of the Qur'an, he describes the different stages of the human soul (Nafs) and the principles of its purification.According to Imam al-Qushayri, the purification of the soul is not only a means of achieving moral excellence but also the foundation of spiritual balance and inner peace. He identifies three major states of the human soul: Nafs al-Ammarah (the soul that commands evil), Nafs al-Lawwamah (the self-reproaching soul), and Nafs al-Mutma'innah (the soul at peace). In his view, Nafs al-Ammarah is controlled by desires and passions, Nafs al-Lawwamah represents self-examination and repentance, while Nafs al-Mutma'innah reflects spiritual satisfaction, inner peace, and closeness to Allah.