The comparative analysis of Allah's attributes in Bursevî's tafsir

In this study, based on the exegesis of Ismail Hakki Bursevi, the aim is to present the primary ishârî approaches to the attributes of Allah and then examine alternative perspectives. Although previous studies on the attributes of Allah exist across various fields, these studies have not delved into the ishârî dimension. Bursevi is recognized as a distinguished scholar not only in exegesis but also in fields such as Sufism, hadith, and ma'ani. In this context, his ishârî exegesis has profoundly influenced Sufi thought, becoming one of the major works consulted by Sufi scholars. Bursevi's multidimensional approach to the attributes of Allah distinguishes him from other scholars, giving his views unique significance. Bursevi initially approached the verses through the methods of riwāya and dirāya tafsir, and thereafter offered an esoteric interpretation for each verse. In matters concerning the attributes of Allah, Bursevi avoided both the approach of those who engage in ta'wil to reject the attributes, and the approach of those who adhere excessively to literalism, inclining toward anthropomorphism or corporealism. In matters of the unseen, particularly in areas beyond the comprehension of human intellect, he adhered to the apparent meaning of the texts, considering belief in their outward expressions to be sufficient. Within the framework of Bursevi's tafsir, it is observed that his interpretations of the attributes of Allah are free from excess, handled with simplicity, and aligned with proper principles.