We observe one point in the Islamic traditions that is supported by reason and the Book. That though the holy verses are restricted, their applicability and reign are unlimited (would continue to prevail until the Day of resurrection). So how can we say that its meanings and concepts are confined to the ‘occasions of revelations’ only?
The holy Prophet and Imams have said:
“If a verse from the holy Qur’an concerns a particular nation, and that nation passes away and with it that verse, then nothing would remain from the Qur’an. This is because occasions of revelation of verses are restricted. A verse may have been revealed on the occasion of some specific event but with the termination of that event, Qur’an is not rendered null and void. The holy verses have been revealed in connection with some specific events and stories but their precepts and commandments continue to prevail. Therefore, although the occasion of revelation of the above-mentioned verse concerns Firaun and the oppressed ones during his era, yet its meaning and applicability are one common rule and esoterically, it concerns Hazrat Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).”
The one who explains (interprets and comments) the holy Qur’an is none other than the holy Prophet and those appointed by the Prophet. They are the pure and immaculate Imams. These teachers and interpreters have esoterically interpreted this verse to be related to Hazrat Mahdi’s government. In this regard, you may refer to:
Tafsir Nur al-Saqalain 4: 107, hadith 6 & 9- 15
Tafsir Nemunah 16: 15- 21
In addition to the apparent meaning, the holy Qur’an possesses another meaning named as ‘Ta’veel’ (esoteric interpretation)? The matter of esoteric interpretation is discussed in the holy Qur’an. In verse 7 from Chapter Ale-Imran, it has come down as follows:
“Some of its verses are decisive, they are the basis of the Book, and others are allegorical; then as for those in whose hearts there is perversity…” (Qur’an, 3:7)
Thus the allegorical verses are to be interpreted esoterically. In continuation of the verse, it says:
“But none knows its interpretation except Allah and those who are firmly rooted in knowledge.”
This shows that undoubtedly, there exist those who are firmly rooted in knowledge and know the esoteric interpretation. This verse proves the very basis of ‘Ta’veel’ (whatsoever its meaning) as well as ‘those firmly rooted in knowledge’ (whomsoever they may be) who know the ‘Ta’veel’. Now we should find out who are those firmly rooted in knowledge
After research, we shall realize that the holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) [who has brought and taught the Qur’an], has entrusted its esoteric interpretation only to the Imams [from Imam Ali (a.s.) till the Mahdi (a.t.f.s.)]. These are evidences based on history and narration[159] . They have esoterically interpreted the verse in the sense that the occasion of revelation has been about Pharao’s nation, but esoterically, it refers to Hazrat Mahdi’s government.