A Psychological Critical Reading of the Concept of “Love” in Verse ۵۴ of Surah al-Mā’idah (The Verse of Affection) According to Erich Fromm’s Theory

Spiritual and human perfection in this world and the hereafter is attainable solely through sincere love for the Holy Qur’an and the Ahl al-Bayt, alongside practical adherence to their guidance and benefitting from their divine grace. Modern psychological theories, when illuminated by the Qur’anic revelation, can offer renewed pathways for understanding divine truths in today’s world. Among the early psychologists who approached religion affirmatively was Erich Fromm, whose reinterpretation of “love” introduced a vital paradigm for examining both human and transcendent relationships. This paper examines the referent of *ḥubb* in Qur’an ۵:۵۴, which, according to prominent exegetes, pertains to Imam ʿAlī (peace be upon him) through the lens of Fromm’s theory and in light of classical Qur’anic exegesis. Using a descriptive-analytical method, the study finds that Fromm’s model of mature, fearless, reciprocal, and liberating love aligns with Qur’anic love as a divine-human bond rooted in knowledge, selflessness, humility, and ethical commitment. Unlike egocentric or dependent forms of affection, this love embodies a perfected ethical and spiritual ideal, reflecting the believer’s deep responsibility, courage, and devotion to both God and fellow believers.

کلیدواژه ها:

Holy Qur' an ، Verse of Love ، Erich Fromm ، Theory of Love