Abstract:

There have been different works of tafsir and ta’wil, from the earliest period to the present, in an attempt to understand and interpret the Qur’an. It is seen that there are certain principles developed in relation to different interpretations in the literature. In this regard, the opinions preferred by most commentators are considered as strong and guiding, and it was emphasized that there should be no interference with the comments adopted by the majority. It is understood from the preferences of commentators that the interpretations labelled as jumhur al-mufassirin, ammat ahl al-ta’wil, or aksar al- mufassirin have influenced the later interpretations. Abu Mansur al-Maturidi among such commentators has offered opinions that are favored by the majority of commentators and they have tried to follow his line. However, it is also seen that in some situations he opposed many commentators. This study aims to examine his objections to the majority of commentators, and explore the different evidence and justifications leading him to make different interpretations It is seen that the language-related principles such as the apparent meaning and siyaq, as well as the integrity of the Qur’an, the mental justifications, the principles of belief, and the conformity to the historical reality were decisive in his different preferences related to his works on the divine wish, kalam-related issues, reasons of revelations, and anecdotes.

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