al-Afkar, Journal For Islamic Studies
Vol. 8 No. 4 (2025)

The Transformation of Tafsir Bi Al-Ra'yi: History, Methodological Limitations, and the Dynamics of Scholarly Debate

Muhammad Bayu Fitriansyah (Unknown)
Saptanadi Yudistira (Unknown)
Eni Zulaiha (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study aims to discuss the transformation of Tafsir bi al-ra’yi: its history, methodological boundaries, and the dynamics of scholarly debates. The research employs a qualitative approach using a descriptive-analytical method. Tafsir bi al-ra’yi is an interpretative method of the Qur’an based on ijtihad, which emerged in the 3rd century Hijri, particularly during the Abbasid era, to address the demands of the times. This method must be carried out by knowledgeable interpreters adhering to the principles of tafsir to ensure alignment with the Qur’an, Sunnah, and ijma’ of the scholars. While it allows intellectual freedom, it remains constrained to avoid subjective desires. Scholars have differing views: some support it as a necessary form of ijtihad, while others reject it due to concerns about conflicting with definitive texts (nash qath’i). This study concludes that Tafsir bi al-ra’yi plays a significant role in enriching the understanding of the Qur’an but emphasizes that its application must balance methodological caution and respect for the authority of the Qur’anic text.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Afkar_Journal

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is published by Association of Secondment Lecturers (Asosiasi Dosen DPK) UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Indonesia. Focus of al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is on publishing original empirical research articles and theoretical reviews of Islamic Studies, ...