A Critical Analysis of the Muqoron Interpretation Method: History, Urgency, and Epistemological Debate in Qur'anic Studies

Abstrak

This study investigates tafsir muqāran (comparative exegesis) as an important methodological approach in contemporary Qur’anic interpretation. The study focuses on its historical development, epistemological significance, methodological procedures, and various academic debates associated with its application. This research employs a qualitative method through descriptive-analytical and library research approaches. Data were obtained from primary sources consisting of classical and contemporary works of Qur’anic exegesis, complemented by secondary sources such as scholarly articles, previous studies, and relevant academic literature. The collected data were examined using content analysis supported by a hermeneutical perspective to understand the meanings, contexts, and interpretive differences found within tafsir muqāran. Historically, the comparative approach developed in response to the diversity of interpretations that emerged among Muslim scholars and gained greater methodological formulation during the twentieth century. Its implementation generally involves several stages, including identifying and selecting relevant interpretations, examining the intellectual and methodological orientations of exegetes, tracing the factors underlying interpretive differences, conducting critical comparisons, and formulating comprehensive conclusions. The objects of comparison may include Qur’anic verses, exegetical interpretations, schools of thought, and methods of interpretation. The findings demonstrate that tafsir muqāran contributes significantly to strengthening objectivity, broadening intellectual perspectives, developing tolerance toward interpretive diversity, and connecting classical interpretations with contemporary contexts. Nevertheless, its application faces methodological challenges, particularly the complexity of comparative procedures, extensive data requirements, and the possibility of researcher subjectivity. Therefore, tafsir muqāran remains a relevant and valuable approach for developing critical and contextual Qur’anic studies.