METODE DAN APLIKASI KRITIK TERHADAP ISRAILIYYAT DALAM TAFSIR AL-QUR’AN

Abstract

This research examined the methods and applications of criticism toward Israiliyyat in Qur’anic exegesis, focusing on efforts to preserve the purity of divine revelation from narratives originating in the traditions of the People of the Book. The study aimed to explain the concept and classification of Israiliyyat, the critical methodologies developed by classical and modern Qur’anic exegetes, and the practical application of such criticism in interpreting Qur’anic verses. This research employed a qualitative descriptive-analytical method through library research, using the Qur’an and authoritative tafsīr works as primary sources. The findings revealed that Muslim scholars formulated systematic approaches to criticizing Israiliyyat through source criticism, isnād analysis, matn evaluation, and theological as well as rational considerations. These critical approaches were clearly applied in the works of exegetes such as al-Ṭabarī, Ibn Kathīr, al-Qurṭubī, and modern scholars including Muhammad ‘Abduh, Rashīd Riḍā, and Sayyid Quṭb. The study concluded that a selective and proportional attitude toward Israiliyyat is essential to ensure that Qur’anic interpretation remains grounded in authentic revelation, sound theology, and the guiding purpose of the Qur’an.