A comparative study of methods used in the exegesis of the Qur’an and the Bible

In this project, I have investigated the most commonly used methods in Qur’anic and Biblical exegesis. My research has produced a practical step-by-step guide for understanding and using the Qur’an, and a new classification of Qur’anic exegetical methods and approaches. I used Biblical works instrumentally to facilitate the discovery of ideas for the step-by-step model and classification. I intend to publish my findings as a handbook for students, teachers, imams, and others who wish to study and use the Qur’an in an effective and rewarding way. My project is the first of its kind, as currently no such resource exists in the English language from a Shi‘i Muslim perspective. I believe my research makes a significant contribution to my community of practice. Once published, the handbook will be a much-needed point of reference for learning how to comprehend and apply the text of the Qur’an. It will also provide students with an easy-to-follow, comprehensive guide that will facilitate their learning and empower them to create original, well-explored pieces of work. Early indications of the impact my research is having have been very encouraging. I am hopeful that as my research becomes better known, it will continue having a positive and meaningful impact in communities across the world. I conducted my research using the methodological framework of critical rationalism. The methods I used in my project were semi-structured interviews with eminent scholars of the Qur’an, questionnaire surveys on a series of lectures I delivered, hermeneutical methods, and library research. Preliminary tests through classroom and conference presentations have indicated that the critical rationalist approach is effective, and survey feedback has shown that my step-by-step model is important, relevant, innovative, and useful.