Challenges of Doctrinal Exegetical Narrations in Realizing Islamic Unity: A Comparative Study of Sunni and Shia Approaches

Abstract

The present study, with a comparative and analytical approach, examines the challenges of doctrinal exegetical narrations and their impact on the realization of Islamic unity. The main objective is to identify points of conflict and convergence in Shia and Sunni exegeses and to extract unity-generating capacities. The research method is descriptive–analytical, based on library sources and content analysis of selected narrations. The findings show that part of the challenges arises from sectarian interpretations and exclusivist readings that conflict with the overarching objectives of the Qur’an, such as mercy and unity. At the same time, in fundamental topics such as monotheism, prophethood, eschatology, and human dignity, there are significant commonalities which, through a rapprochement-oriented rereading, can provide the basis for Islamic unity. Another achievement of the study is the identification of hidden capacities in the narrations that are either shared or closely related in both traditions, which—especially by relying on Islamic ethical principles, the objectives of the Sharia (maqāṣid al-sharīʿa), and religious rationality—can play a role in forming a unity-oriented and empathetic exegetical discourse. Accordingly, the research emphasizes the necessity of reforming exegetical discourse, avoiding religious absolutism, and enhancing the role of academic institutions and exegetes in producing convergent religious knowledge. Ultimately, the study underlines that in the present era, when the Islamic ummah faces increasing crises in the realms of identity, legitimacy, and social cohesion, the transition from divisive interpretations toward unity-centered exegesis is not only an epistemic and religious necessity, but also a civilizational strategy for achieving a unified Islamic society resilient against global challenges.