Preference is given by the majority according to Ibn Jarir al-Tabari in his interpretation

Document Type : Original Article

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Assistant Professor in the Department of the Qur’an and its Sciences Faculty of Fundamentals of Religion and Da’wah Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study examines the concept of the majority and the rule of preference based on the majority according to the leading interpreter of the Quran, Ibn Jarir al-Tabari (may Allah have mercy on him). It highlights that his intent when using the terms "dominant" or "most likely" encompassed two main aspects:
1. When choosing an opinion: If he intended to prefer one opinion over others, he would use "dominant" or "most likely," meaning the strongest, clearest, and most valid opinion in his view. He employed these terms as a form of preference.
2. When providing evidence for a preferred opinion: He would explain the reasoning behind his preference by stating that the opinion aligns with the majority in foundational principles of religion and knowledge or one of their established rules.
However, his use of this rule was not absolute. He adhered to a condition that preference by majority must not contradict clear and sound evidence that must be accepted, such as proof from the Quran, Sunnah, consensus, and similar sources.
The study concludes by addressing objections that equate preference by majority with the concept of numerical superiority, which is often censured in several Quranic verses. It clarifies that there is a fundamental distinction between the two. The rule of preference by majority is grounded in principles and rules of religion and knowledge, whereas censured numerical superiority in the Quran is based solely on sheer quantity, devoid of any inherent merit or value.

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