Should a later scientific interpretation of the Qur’an be rejected if it contradicts the interpretation of the Salaf?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
If later scholars interpret a verse with an explanation not discussed by earlier scholars, and it does not contradict them, then it is accepted, similar to interpreting cosmic verses in light of modern scientific findings. However, if it clearly contradicts what the early Muslims (Salaf) believed, such as interpreting "Istiwā" (God's 'settling' or 'ascending' over the Throne) as "Istīlā'" (seizing or conquering), then it must be rejected and is not permissible to accept.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/9193
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- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 9193
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- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy