A Critical Analysis of the Role of "Dakhil" in the Incident of the Ashab-e-Kahf in the Light of Tafseer Tibyan-ul-Quran

تفسیر تبیان القرآن کی روشنی میں واقعہ اصحاب کہف میں دخیل کا تنقیدی جائزہ

Abstract

The story of Ashab-e-Kahf (Companions of the Cave) in Surah Al-Kahf is one of the most significant narratives in the Qur'an, serving as a subject of discussion among both Muslim and non-Muslim scholars for centuries. The Qur'anic stories are not merely historical accounts but also contain profound theological, moral, and religious lessons. The story of Ashab-e-Kahf emphasizes monotheism, divine power, faith, patience, and the signs of the Day of Judgment. However, over time, many unauthentic narrations and additional details were incorporated into the story, which are not in harmony with the Qur’anic text and appear historically and exegetically weak.

These extraneous elements, classified as dakhil (interpolations), infiltrated the story through public beliefs, sectarian influences, legends, and narrative traditions. Eventually, these additions found their way into various exegetical works. The interpolations often stem from mystical interpretations, baseless assumptions, and Isra'iliyyat (narrations of Jewish or Christian origin), which lack direct correlation with the Qur’an or authentic aḥādīth (Prophetic Traditions). Such additions not only distorted religious beliefs but also blurred the distinction between reality and fiction.

This study critically analyzes the interpolations found in the Tafsir Tebyān al-Qur’ān regarding the story of Ashab-e-Kahf. The objective is to highlight that the Qur’anic narrative is concise, wise, and comprehensive, and to examine how unnecessary discussions have affected the essence of its message.

Keywords: Ashab-e-Kahf, Interpolations (Dakhil), Isra'iliyyat, Surah Al-Kahf, Qur'anic narrative, Exegesis (Tafsir)