Abstract
In this paper, I probe the role of visuality and vulnerability in Muqātil b. Sulaymān’s (d. 150/767) Qur’an exegesis (tafsīr), which is the earliest complete work of this genre still existent. Hereby, I examine his interpretations of Sūrat Yūsuf; the story of the prophet Joseph which contains spiritual, epistemological, and ethic-legal aspects of seeing. Seeing and being seen can manifest as austere experiences of exposure and sensitivity. Muqātil’s keen reflections on the moral gaze and the role of vision in transgressing ethical and religious boundaries, provide us with intriguing thoughts about the potential to transform visual vulnerability into spiritual-moral certainty and the ability to forgive. According to Muqātil, the prophet Yūsuf’s exposure to different forms of vulnerability, his strive towards realizing self-accountability, and his ultimate pious surrender allow him to develop truthful insight and spiritual-emotional resilience.
Presenters
Yunus Valerian HentschelPostdoctoral Researcher, Department of Comparative Religion, ERC VISIONIS - Vision and Visuality in the Qur'an and Early Islam, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Fragile Meanings: Vulnerability in the Study of Religions and Spirituality
KEYWORDS
Visuality, Vulnerability, Forgiving, Qur'an
