Journal of Interreligious Studies on the Quran and the Bible

Journal of Interreligious Studies on the Quran and the Bible

Semantic Hermeneutics of the Food of the People of the Book According to Exegetes through the Verse 5 of Surah al-Māʼidah

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Khaled Troudi
Associaate Pofessor of Ez-Zitouna University, TUNISIA.
10.22034/qb.2025.2054819.1035
Abstract
This study critically examines a range of interpretative works on the Qur'anic verse, "This day, [all] good foods have been made lawful for you, and the food of those who were given the Scripture is lawful for you." (al-Māʼidah/5) By employing a comparative and analytical approach, the research explores the evolution of ijtihad and hermeneutics as applied to this key verse, which lies at the intersection of legal rulings, social ethics, and interreligious relations. The investigation traces the diverse exegetical traditions, from classical Tafsir by scholars such as al-Ṭabarī, Ibn Kathīr, and al-Rāzī to contemporary interpretations, and examines how historical, cultural, and doctrinal contexts have shaped juristic reasoning. In doing so, it reveals the verse’s critical role in establishing legal pluralism and fostering interfaith dialogue, thereby contributing to social cohesion and the development of inclusive legal frameworks. The study is guided by research questions that address the focus on the People of the Book, the historical and social catalysts for legal recognition, the influence of various jurisprudential schools, and the broader socio-political implications of these interpretations on religious pluralism and citizenship. Ultimately, this research contributes to current debates on the nature of Islamic legal thought and its capacity to inform modern discussions on multicultural governance and civic coexistence.
Keywords
Qur'anic Exegesis
Food of the People of the Book
Ijtihad
Legal Pluralism
Interfaith Relations
Islamic Jurisprudence
Hermeneutics
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Journal of Interreligious Studies on the Quran and the Bible
Volume 1, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
March 2025
Pages 256-300