A Multi-Criteria Analysis Method for Resolving Exegetical Conflicts in Verse 42 of Surah Yusuf

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Verse 42 of Surah Yusuf—featuring the phrase “but Satan made him forget the remembrance of his Lord” (fa-ansāhu al-shayṭānu dhikra rabbih)—presents a key exegetical dispute over prophetic infallibility (ismah al-anbiyāʾ). Ambiguity in the pronoun referent of ansāhu (Joseph or the cupbearer) yields two opposing interpretations with significant theological ramifications. This study resolves the debate through three questions: (1) What Qur’anic, hadith, and theological evidence support each view? (2) How valid is this evidence per Qur’anic and rational standards? (3) Which interpretation prevails under systematic evaluation? Using descriptive-analytical methods and library research, it introduces a novel “Multi-Criteria Analysis Method” assessing Qur’anic-contextual, theological-rational, and narrative criteria. Results favor the cupbearer referent, aligning fully with Qur’an 12:45 and infallibility principles, while the alternative incurs textual and doctrinal inconsistencies. The study contributes a generalizable model for exegetical disputes, addressing prior lacks in structured analysis.

Keywords

Main Subjects


The Holy Quran
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