Tafsir al-Mizan, Volume 2
The second volume of the English translation covers verses 94–182 of Sūrah al-Baqarah (Chapter 2), addressing theological, philosophical, and ethical themes.
The volume explores divine covenants, the rejection of messengers, the principle of imāmah, and the soul’s journey. Notable sections include the Jews’ claims of exclusivity in salvation (verses 94–99), the story of Hārūt and Mārūt and its moral lessons (verses 102–103), the Kaʿbah’s spiritual significance (verses 125–129), and discussions on the soul’s immateriality and Barzakh (verses 153–157). Ethical topics such as Qiṣāṣ (retaliation) and its role in justice (verses 178–182) are also addressed.
ʿAllāmah Ṭabāṭabaʿī provides a comprehensive analysis of verse 2:124, which narrates the bestowal of imāmah upon Prophet Abraham. He explains how imāmah transcends the prophetic mission, embodying divine leadership that ensures the continuation of guidance for humanity. The commentary highlights the moral and spiritual qualifications required for imāmah, emphasizing its relevance as a principle of divine justice and governance.
ʿAllāmah emphasizes sincerity in faith and the importance of adhering to divine guidance. The story of Hārūt and Mārūt illustrates humanity’s ethical responsibilities when acquiring knowledge, rejecting false attributions of sorcery to Prophet Solomon. The Kaʿbah and Ḥajj symbolize humanity’s return to God, while the exploration of the soul emphasizes its immaterial and eternal nature. The laws of Qiṣāṣ are defended as both deterrents and safeguards for justice.
Throughout the volume, Ṭabāṭabaʿī offers subtle insights, such as the originality of creation (verses 116–117), the sociological implications of the Qiblah change (verses 142–151), and the distinction between divine love and worldly attachment (verses 163–167). These reflections highlight the Qur’an’s depth and inspire contemplation of divine guidance.
This volume sets the stage for the profound and exhaustive discourse that characterizes al-Mīzān. Each topic is addressed with remarkable depth and clarity, providing readers with insights into the Qurʿān’s multifaceted teachings.
Translator: Late Allamah Sayyid Akhtar Rizvi
Read this volume online
The commentary in this volume is on almizan.org:
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