Analyzing Authentic and Infiltrated Sources in Qur’anic Interpretation: A Critical Study of Tafsīr al-Qummī on Sūrah An-Nūr

Abstract

The diversity of Qur’anic interpretation throughout Islamic intellectual history has produced various methodological approaches and interpretive sources. However, not all interpretations are constructed upon authoritative foundations, as some may contain infiltrated elements (al-dakhīl) originating from weak narrations, unsupported historical reports, or theological assumptions that exceed the textual boundaries of the Qur’an. This study aims to analyze the sources of interpretation in Tafsīr al-Qummī on Sūrah An-Nūr by identifying the categories of authentic sources (al-Aṣīl) and infiltrated sources (al-Dakhīl) and examining the forms of interpretive infiltration contained within the text. This research employs a qualitative approach using library research methods. Data were collected from Tafsīr al-Qummī as the primary source and supported by classical tafsir works, hadith literature, and contemporary studies related to the methodology of Qur’anic interpretation. Data analysis was conducted through descriptive-analytical and critical methods based on the theory of al-Aṣīl and al-Dakhīl by examining sanad, matan, linguistic aspects, and contextual relevance. The findings reveal that the interpretation of Sūrah An-Nūr in Tafsīr al-Qummī contains both authentic and problematic interpretive materials. The al-Aṣīl narrations are reflected in interpretations supported by Qur’anic evidence, acceptable transmitted reports, and consistent linguistic analysis. Meanwhile, the al-Dakhīl elements include restricted theological interpretations, symbolic meanings beyond textual evidence, weak narrations, and historically unsupported explanations. This study contributes to Qur’anic studies by providing a balanced methodological framework for evaluating classical tafsir sources and strengthening critical approaches toward the authenticity of Qur’anic interpretation.