THE ROLE OF READING MOTIVATION AND INTEREST IN READING ENGAGEMENT OF QURANIC EXEGESIS READERS

Abstract

The paper explores how personal motivation and interest shapes domain specific reading of Quranic exegesis. It presents a conceptual model for of long-term engagement with reading Quranic exegesis. Seventy-six open-ended structured questionnaires were completed by regular Quranic exegesis readers and those having moderate to extensive knowledge of Quranic exegesis. These responses were analyzed qualitatively. The findings show that the samples readers’ motivation together with their personal interests shaped their reading. Their intrinsic motivation is to know the interpretation of Quranic verses, while the extrinsic motivation is to relate the meaning of the verses with society and real life. Their interest in reading social exegeses indicates that they are active readers. Therefore, their engagement is understood in terms of applying Quranic principles in real life. Exegeses readers characterized their interest as being based on a desire to promote social development, social welfare, and social reconstruction. This paper is a useful guideline for Quranic commentators and researchers. The findings provide insights regarding maintaining a long-term engagement with Quranic exegesis.