. A Philosophical-Theological Epistemological Analysis and Feasibility of Philosophical Interpretation from the Perspective of Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and Suhrawardi

Hosaininia, Saied Mohamadreza; Mohamadzamani, Farideh

doi:10.22034/qc.2025.491289.1137

. A Philosophical-Theological Epistemological Analysis and Feasibility of Philosophical Interpretation from the Perspective of Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and Suhrawardi

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

saied mohamadreza Hosaininia ¹

Farideh Mohamadzamani ²

¹ Associate Professor, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran

² Assistant Professor, Department of Theological Education, Farhangian University, PO Box 889-14665, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/qc.2025.491289.1137

Abstract

Abstract

Philosophical interpretation serves as an important tool for analyzing and interpreting the esoteric and symbolic meanings in religious texts. This approach aids in uncovering the hidden truths in the Quran and plays a crucial role in deepening the understanding of religious concepts. The significance of this subject is evident in the history of Islamic philosophy, as prominent philosophers like Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and Suhrawardi have engaged in philosophical interpretation. The primary aim of this study is to investigate whether the philosophical interpretation from the perspectives of these two philosophers can be considered a valid method for uncovering Quranic truths. Findings indicate that accusations such as imposing Greek philosophy on the Quran towards Avicenna and critiques like conflating the meaning of interpretation towards Suhrawardi have been made. Analyses reveal that Avicenna employs a symbolic and esoteric interpretation, while Suhrawardi’s interpretation is based on the theory of intuition and illuminationist wisdom. The results of this research demonstrate that the philosophical interpretations of these philosophers are robust and valid, capable of serving as reliable tools for uncovering Quranic truths.

Keywords

Philosophical Interpretation

Avicenna (Ibn Sina)

Suhrawardi

Epistemology

Symbolic Interpretation

Illuminationist Wisdom

Critiques and Accusations

Subjects