Tafsir al-Mizan, Volume 4
The fourth volume of the English translation continues the commentary on Sūrah al-Baqarah, covering verses 224–286, and explores topics such as divine guidance, interpersonal ethics, and the foundations of Islamic legislation.
This volume extensively discusses the rights and responsibilities within marriage and divorce (verses 224–242), emphasizing fairness and preserving the dignity of all parties involved. ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabaʿī examines the rights of women in Islam, providing comparative insights into their status across civilizations and explaining how Islamic teachings transformed their societal roles. The philosophical and ethical dimensions of financial transactions, including the prohibition of usury (ribā) and the encouragement of spending in the way of God, are comprehensively explored (verses 261–274).
The discussion on spending in the way of God emphasizes the Qur’an’s emphasis on selflessness and the socio-economic benefits of charity. ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabaʿī highlights how acts of giving cultivate spiritual growth and purify wealth while simultaneously addressing societal inequalities. This theme is interwoven with a broader ethical framework encouraging believers to prioritize communal well-being over individual greed.
A profound analysis of Āyat al-Kursī (verse 255) elucidates its theological significance and the attributes of God presented within it, such as His knowledge, sovereignty, and the intimate connection between the Creator and His creation. Additionally, verses 256–257 discuss the negation of compulsion in religion, reflecting on human freedom and the rational basis of faith.
Subtle discussions include the Qur’anic perspective on the meaning of “heart” (qalb) as the locus of understanding and spirituality, as well as a philosophical exposition on divine speech and its implications for theology. The concept of human struggle and survival, framed within the divine plan for guidance, is also analyzed, highlighting the Qur’an’s approach to history and societal development.
This volume encapsulates ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabaʿī’s scholarly brilliance in integrating Qur’anic exegesis with philosophical and ethical reflections. It continues to be an essential resource for understanding the Qur’an, inspiring readers to reflect on the harmony of divine laws with human nature and to strive towards a life of faith, justice, and compassion.
Translator: Late Allamah Sayyid Akhtar Rizvi
Read this volume online
The commentary in this volume is on almizan.org:
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