A study of Sayyid Qutb's Qur'an exegesis in earlier and later editions of his 'Fi Zilal al-Qur'an' with specific reference to selected themes (M.A. Dissertation)

This thesis analyzes Sayyid Qutb's interpretations of the Qur'an in his Fi Zilal al-Qur'an. It compares the earlier and later revised editions of the exegesis, which paralleled his own changing life philosophies. Qutb believed that the sacred text was a book of guidance and inspiration with immediate relevance to contemporary issues and challenges. Social, political, economic, and psychological factors may have contributed to his interpretations and revisions. This thesis explores the degree and significance of the revisions, focusing on zaka (alms) and riba (usury)-related verses. Although fundamentally consistent in arguing that Islam is a distinct, divinely ordained system, Qutb tended to draw sharp distinctions between those who strove for the establishment of God's law in the world, and those opposed. His exegesis is influenced by his socio-political background, and differs from contemporary works in that it expresses the views of an advocate of social, political and religious re