تفسیر کشاف اور روح المعانی میں تصورِ ہدایت و ضلالت اور مسئلہ جبر و اختیار: ایک تحقیقی و تقابلی جائزہ

Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of the concepts of guidance (Hidayah) and misguidance (Dhalalah), as well as the theological problem of free will and determinism, through the exegetical frameworks of two master Quranic commentators: Al-Zamakhshari (Tafsir al-Kashshaf) and Al-Alusi (Tafsir Ruh al-Ma'ani). Grounded in classical Arabic lexicography, Quranic verses, and Prophetic traditions, the study demonstrates that guidance is not merely acquiring knowledge of the path, but an integration of divine grace (Tawfiq) and conveying the soul to its ultimate destination (Iysal ila al-Matlub). Conversely, misguidance is not an arbitrary divine compulsion, but the withdrawal of divine grace (Khidhlan) in response to human intentional deviation, serving as the execution of divine justice. The findings reveal that while Al-Zamakhshari (Mu'tazilite orientation) focuses on divine justice ('Adl), human free will, and moral accountability, Al-Alusi (Ash'arite/Sufi orientation) emphasizes divine sovereignty, absolute creation, and the doctrine of acquisition (Kasb). The comparative synthesis demonstrates that human beings are not passively compelled; rather, human volition and the sincere pursuit of truth act as the catalyst for divine guidance or abandonment. Ultimately, the paper highlights the necessity of balancing reason and revelation, human effort (Kasb) and divine grace (Tawfiq), to address contemporary intellectual and moral challenges.