Clarifying the Network Structure of Divine Norms and Their Mutual Interactions within the Qur’anic Epistemological System, with a Focus on Military Norms

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Maaref, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

2 Associate professor, Faculty of Theology , Department of Qur’an and Hadith Sciences, Yazd University, yazd, Iran ,

Abstract
This study aims to elucidate the network structure of divine norms within the Qur’anic epistemological system, with a focus on military norms. Given that previous research has largely adopted a reductionist approach and neglected the internal interrelations among these norms, the present article employs a descriptive-analytical method, complemented by the Qur’an-interprets-Qur’an approach, to identify and explain longitudinal, lateral, reciprocal, reinforcing, complementary, and moderating relationships among some of the most significant military divine norms in the Qur’anic framework. The study provides Qur’anic examples for each type of relationship and interaction and offers a detailed analysis of these relational patterns.

The central hypothesis is that divine norms function not in isolation but as an integrated, interactive network. Consequently, a one-dimensional perspective—such as focusing exclusively on the norm of divine support (nusrah) while ignoring the norm of trial (imtihan)—can lead to strategic errors.

The findings indicate that the norm of “completion of proof” (itmam al-hujjah) serves as a foundational, preparatory norm that enables the activation of other norms. Meanwhile, norms such as “guidance of the strugglers” (mujahidin), “reversal of enemies’ schemes,” and “divine support for believers” reinforce the ultimate norms of “the victory of truth over falsehood” and “the defeat of disbelievers.” This networked structure provides a comprehensive model for crisis management and the formulation of Islamic defense strategies.

Keywords

Subjects


Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 June 2026