Reason Based Exegesis 2/26

"One of the foremost proponents of reason-based exegesis was the Spanish Muslim philosopher, Ibn Rushd (d.595/1198). He argued that Islam addresses people of different intellectual and psychological capabilities, necessitating that the Qur’an be dealt with at different levels. Just as one person’s comprehension may differ from another’s, it is also possible that one person may be more comfortable with simple explanations while another may prefer to rely on complex, rational evidence."- 2008 Abdullah Saeed
 
When reading about Reason Based Exegesis I struggled with knowing what was acceptable because Reason based exegesis is challenged against tradition based exegesis. Using tradition as a tool of guidance keeps new ways of thinking about the Qu'ran at a standstill. While many scholars prefer tradition based, I feel that reason based is a better way to focus on the teachings of the Qu'ran. Reason based allows the seeker to view the teachings in a more personally applicable way. Some students may not see things in the same way and therefore reject the traditions. Traditions are the basis for understanding a culture and order, but after, reason based exegesis should then be allowed for further insight into living according to the Quran.