Commentaries on the Qur’an - A Historical and Scholarly Overview

Introduction

The study and interpretation of the Qur’an, known as Tafsir (تفسير), holds a significant place in Islamic scholarship. Exegeses of the Qur’an date back to the earliest periods of Islam, where interpretations were often transmitted through the sayings and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions and their successors. This entry provides a historical perspective on the development of Qur’anic commentaries and highlights prominent scholars and their contributions in both Sunni and Shia traditions.

Etymology

Tafsir (تفسير) is derived from the Arabic root f-s-r (ف - س - ر), which means to explain, to interpret, to expound. The term represents the body of knowledge surrounding the elucidation of the Qur’anic text.

Early Exegesis Tradition

In the earliest stages of Islamic history, the interpretation of the Qur’an predominantly relied on oral transmission. Sayings (Ahadith) of the Prophet Muhammad, as well as the teachings of his close companions, played a crucial role in explaining verses of the Qur’an.

Notable Sunni Commentaries

1. Qutaibah ibn Ahmad (d. 316 AH) - One of the earliest known systematic compilers of a complete Tafsir, although his work is no longer extant.

2. Al-Baghawi (d. 515 AH) - Known for his commentary “Ma’alim al-Tanzil,” recognized for its concise and accessible interpretation.

3. Al-Zamakhshari (d. 604 AH) - Author of “Al-Kashshaf,” notable for its linguistic and rhetorical analysis of the Qur’an.

4. Fakhr al-Din al-Razi (d. 606 AH) - Known for “Al-Tafsir al-Kabir,” a comprehensive and philosophical approach to Qur’anic exegesis.

5. Ibn al-Arabi (d. 628 AH) - Contributed significant works on both jurisprudence and Tafsir.

6. Al-Baydawi (d. 685 AH) - His work “Anwar al-Tanzil wa Asrar al-Ta’wil” is heavily relied upon in Sunni Islamic studies.

7. Al-Jalalayn - Commentary by Jalal al-Din al-Mahalli (d. 864 AH) and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti (d. 911 AH), known for its clear and succinct style.

8. Al-Mazhari (d. 1225 AH) - Known for his Tafsir which presented a balanced approach combining traditional and rationalist methodologies.

Notable Shia Commentaries

1. Shaikh Saduq (d. 381 AH) - One of the earliest Shia scholars who contributed notable works in both Hadith and Tafsir.

2. Al-Razi (d. 606 AH) - Authored “Tafsir al-Kabir,” a voluminous work stretching across 30 volumes, highly regarded in Shia exegesis.

3. As-Safi (d. 668 AH) - Comprehensive Tafsir, incorporating various Shia traditions and perspectives.

4. As-Sirru’l-Wajiz (d. 715 AH) - Known for its depth and detailed approach to interpreting Qur’anic verses.

5. Sidratu’l-Muntaha by Mir Bakir (d. 1041 AH) - A significant Shia Tafsir work that covers extensive theological insights.

6. Al-Burhan by Sayyid Hasham (d. 1160 AH) - Recognized for its detailed narrative and interpretative analysis closely aligned with Shia traditions.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

• “The Tafsir of Fakhr al-Din al-Razi” by Dr. Feras Hamza
• “Al-Jalalayn: Translated by Feras Hamza”
• “Major Themes of the Qur’an” by Fazlur Rahman
• “Al-Tafsir al-Kabir by Fakhr al-Din al-Razi” (various volumes and editors)

Key Takeaways

• Tafsir is a scholarly discipline essential for understanding the Qur’an.
• Both Sunni and Shia traditions have rich histories of Qur’anic exegesis, with numerous renowned scholars contributing significantly.
• Early Tafsir was largely transmitted orally but later developed into comprehensive written works.

Conclusion

The tradition of Qur’anic exegesis reflects the depth and diversity within Islamic scholarship. Understanding the various commentatorial works and the scholars behind them offers invaluable insights into the interpretative frameworks used to elucidate the meanings of the Qur’an across different Islamic traditions.