Convention-Interpretation Theory of Tabatabaei: An Introduction to Divine Philosophy of Islam

Abstract

Tabatabaei's view about the relationship between religion and philosophy can be considered in two stages: formation and understanding. He introduces revelation as an unknown method. Therefore, the methodological relation between religion and philosophy cannot be explained well. To provide its content, scripture uses a common language which is conventional. Besides, religion has reached its summit later than philosophy. The relationship between religion and philosophy in the understanding stage in Tabatabaei's view is based on interpretation of Quran by Quran. This method of interpretation can be used for completion of philosophy that all its theorems are rooted in Monotheism.

Keywords

• tabatabaei
• religion
• philosophy
• convention-interpretation
• religious philosophy