An Examination of Verse 179 of Surah al-A‘raf Concerning the Epistemic Factors in the Emergence of Human Moral Deviations with Reference to the Exegeses of Allameh Tabataba’i and Fakhr al-Razi

Abstract

The human being is a dual-dimensional entity who encounters both the material world and the realm of immaterial realities, and moral deviations constitute one of the principal obstacles on the path toward felicity. Such deviations divert the human being from the ultimate purpose of life and diminish the station of divine vicegerency. Therefore, identifying the causes of moral deviation and the means of remedying them is essential for preventing such deviations. The present study examines the epistemic factors underlying the emergence of moral deviations on the basis of Verse 179 of Surah al-A‘raf, with particular attention to the exegetical perspectives of Allameh Tabataba’i and Fakhr al-Razi, as well as those of other Qur’anic commentators. Allameh Tabataba’i regards neglect of human truths, deception by Satan, and the absence of sound rational reflection as the principal epistemic causes of moral deviation and emphasizes the necessity of attentiveness to divine realities. Fakhr al-Razi, for his part, identifies four primary factors: heedlessness of truths, divine retribution, the teleology of creation, and order in divine action. Employing a descriptive–analytical method, the present research investigates these factors and their effects on human moral deviation and underscores the critical role of recognizing divine truths in preventing such deviations.