Ma`rifat

The theory of evolution is considered one of the major modern challenges in interpreting Qur’anic verses on the creation of humankind, generating diverse reactions among Muslim exegetes. This study compares the exegetical approaches of Ayatollah Mesbah Yazdi and Dr. Yadollah Sahabi regarding this theory, using a descriptive–analytical method. Ayatollah Mesbah emphasizes the independent authority of the Qur’an in explaining the direct and miraculous creation of the first human from clay, rejecting the use of non-definitive scientific theories in Qur’anic interpretation. In contrast, Dr. Sahabi, by assuming the certainty of evolutionary theory, interprets certain verses through a scientific–exegetical perspective to support genealogical continuity and gradual human development. The findings indicate that Dr. Sahabi’s arguments do not fully align with established principles of Qur’anic interpretation—such as attention to clear and unequivocal verses(muhkamat), context, occasions of revelation, and linguistic and grammatical rules—and sometimes impose external presuppositions on the text. Meanwhile, Ayatollah Mesbah’s approach is characterized by comprehensive consideration of related verses, avoidance of preconceived assumptions, and adherence to exegetical criteria. It is concluded that applying evolutionary theory to Qur’anic verses without decisive scientific evidence or Qur’anic support does not constitute a valid interpretation, whereas the view of the independent creation of the first human is more consistent with the apparent meaning of the Qur’anic text.