Mâtürîdî's interpretation of cosmological verses

The cosmic verses (āyāt kawniyya) in the Qur'an are significant in that they direct human beings to observe the functioning of the universe, reflect upon natural phenomena, and thereby recognize the existence and omnipotence of God. These verses address themes such as the creation of the heavens and the earth, the observable order in nature, the formâtürîdîion of living beings, and cosmic events. As such, they serve both as a source of spiritual inspiration and as a stimulus for rational contemplation. This study examines the interpretation of these cosmic verses within the classical tafsir tradition, with a particular focus on Abū Manṣūr al-Māturīdī (d. 944). His approach is analyzed in comparison with two prominent scholars of the Ahl al-Sunnah tradition: al-Ṭabarī (d. 923) and Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī (d. 1210). While al-Māturīdī's commentaries reflect a rational and theological methodology that highlights both transmitted (naqlī) and intellectual (ʿaqlī) dimensions, al-Ṭabarī's interpretations emphasize a narration-based and literal understanding. In contrast, al-Rāzī integrates philosophical and scientific perspectives into his exegetical work, offering a more multidimensional approach. In addition, the study includes the modern tafsir perspective of Muḥammad Saʿīd al-Tanṭāwī (d. 2010), who incorporates contemporary scientific knowledge into his interpretation of the Qur'anic text. By doing so, the research aims to offer a comprehensive framework that highlights both traditional and modern approaches to the interpretation of cosmic verses, revealing their multifaceted role within the history of Qur'anic exegesis. Keywords: Tafsir, Māturīdī, Taʾwīlāt al-Qur'ān, al-Rāzī, al-Ṭabarī, al-Tanṭāwī, Cosmic Verses.