The Interpretation of "Lā Ikrāha fī al-Dīn" from the Perspective of Ayatollah Maʿrifat

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 . Professor and Faculty Member, Department of Qur'an and Hadith, Al-Mustafa International University, Qom, Iran.

2 PhD in Comparative Qur'anic Studies, Higher Education Center for Qur’an and Hadith, Al-Mustafa International University, Qom, Iran

Abstract

The verse "Lā ikrāha fī al-dīn" ("There is no compulsion in religion") has long intrigued Quranic commentators. Ayatollah Muḥammad Hādī Maʿrifat, in his exegesis, interprets this verse through narrations. He argues that religion is rooted in faith and belief, and the preceding verses prepare for the declaration that coercion has no place in religion. The phrase "Qad tabayyana al-rushdu min al-ghayy" (truly the right way has become clearly distinct from error) supports this, confirming its alignment with Sharīʿa principles. Ayatollah Maʿrifat asserts this verse is muḥkam (clear) and not abrogated. Religion, by nature, cannot be imposed, but this does not permit promoting falsehood or disrupting society. He also clarifies that the prohibition of compulsion does not conflict with verses on jihād, which aims to defend human dignity, eliminate tyranny, and eradicate corruption.

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