Detailed Scholarly Analysis
Detailed Analysis: Surah Al-Baqara Ayah 113
Explore comprehensive scholarly analysis, linguistic insights, and practical applications of this verse from the Holy Quran based on classical and contemporary Islamic scholarship.
Introduction
Surah Al-Baqarah verse 113 addresses one of humanity's persistent challenges: religious prejudice and sectarian conflicts. This verse specifically focuses on the mutual accusations between Jewish and Christian communities, despite their shared heritage as People of the Book.
Translation Overview
Leading translators consistently render this verse as exposing mutual denial between religious communities. Abdullah Yusuf Ali translates it as showing how both groups claim the other has 'naught to stand upon,' while Saheeh International emphasizes that each says the other has 'nothing true to stand on.' The consistency across translations from scholars like Mufti Taqi Usmani and M. Pickthall underscores the verse's clear message about religious prejudice.
Classical Interpretation
The verse reveals the irony that despite both Jews and Christians being 'readers of the Scripture' (yatluna al-kitab), they engage in mutual denial of each other's religious validity. This highlights how sectarian pride can override shared scriptural foundations and common monotheistic beliefs.
Linguistic Analysis
Key Arabic terms include 'al-yahud' (the Jews), 'al-nasara' (the Christians), 'laysa ala shay' (have nothing to stand on), and 'yatluna al-kitab' (they recite/read the Book). The phrase 'la ya'lamun' (those who do not know) refers to ignorant people who make similar unfounded claims.
Historical Context
This verse addresses the historical tensions between Jewish and Christian communities in the Prophet's time, where each group dismissed the other's religious claims despite sharing belief in divine revelation and monotheism.
Related Hadiths
While specific hadiths are not mentioned in the source material for this verse, the concept of avoiding religious prejudice and treating People of the Book with respect appears throughout Islamic tradition.
Practical Applications
This verse teaches the importance of avoiding religious supremacism and recognizing that sectarian disputes often stem from pride rather than genuine theological differences. It calls for humility and mutual respect among faith communities.
Scholarly Insights
Scholars note that this verse serves as a critique of religious exclusivism, showing how communities with shared scriptural heritage can fall into mutual denial and prejudice, ignoring their common ground in divine revelation.
Cross References
This principle connects with other Quranic verses about religious diversity and divine judgment, particularly those emphasizing that Allah will arbitrate between different communities on the Day of Resurrection.
Conclusion
Verse 2:113 serves as a timeless reminder against religious prejudice, emphasizing that mutual accusations between faith communities are often unfounded and that ultimate judgment belongs to Allah alone.
Note: This analysis is compiled from authentic Islamic sources and scholarly interpretations. Always consult qualified Islamic scholars for religious guidance and understanding.