Understanding “Mutashabih” and “Mathani” in the Quran: Clarifying Two Distinct Usages
- Muiz As-Siddeeqi
- May 22
- 1 min read
Understanding “Mutashabih” and “Mathani” in the Quran: Clarifying Two Distinct Usages
Shaykh Ibn Baz:
Allah the Exalted said:
“Allah has sent down the best statement: a Book, Mutashābih and Mathānī.”
(Sūrah az-Zumar, 39:23)
That is, Mathānī means it is repeated and recited again and again — in the daily prayers and during the completion (of the Qur’ān).
This is different from the Mutashābih mentioned in His saying,
“...and others are Mutashābihāt.”
(Sūrah Āl ʿImrān, 3:7)
This refers to something else entirely. These (verses) carry some ambiguity (ishtibāh) in their meaning, and they are explained by the Muḥkam — the clear and definite verses. The Muḥkam is what is obvious and unambiguous. Therefore, the Mutashābih — which may be hidden or unclear in meaning — is interpreted in light of the Muḥkam verses which are clear and decisive. So, the unclear is explained through the clear.
(Source: Minhāj al-Karāmah fī Sharḥ Kitāb al-Istiqāmah, p. 225)
Glossary:
Mutashābih (مُتَشَابِه): In this context, it has two meanings in the Qur’an:
In Surah az-Zumar, it means "similar in style or harmonious," i.e., consistent in tone, structure, and language.
In Surah Āl ʿImrān, it refers to verses that are ambiguous or not entirely clear in meaning, requiring interpretation in light of clear verses (Muḥkam).
Mathānī (مَثَانِي): Literally "oft-repeated." It refers to verses or themes that are repeated frequently for emphasis, reflection, and remembrance — such as in daily prayers and recitation cycles.
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