Is the human being the most argumentative of all? **Khaled El-Gendy explains.

In a thoughtful reflection on the Quranic verse “Man is the most argumentative of all beings,” Sheikh خالد الجندي offered an insightful interpretation that explores the deeper nature of human behavior.

He explained that the verse highlights a fundamental trait within humans—the tendency to engage in argument, whether in pursuit of truth or, at times, to avoid it.

According to his explanation, the phrase may carry two meanings: either that humans are the most argumentative compared to all other creations, or that argumentation is simply one of their most prominent traits. He leaned toward the broader interpretation, seeing argument as an inherent part of human nature.

He also clarified that the word “thing” in Arabic does not necessarily imply absolute inclusiveness, but rather can be contextual, supported by other Quranic examples where the meaning is not fully comprehensive.

Importantly, he noted that angels are excluded from this description, as they do not possess free will or the tendency to argue. Their questioning in the Quran is understood as a form of inquiry, not objection (i‘tirāḍ) or argumentation (jidāl).

Ultimately, the discussion frames argument as a double-edged trait—one that can elevate a human being when used to seek truth, or mislead when driven by ego—revealing a deeper balance within human nature.