Tafsir
Introduction
Tafsir (Arabic: تفسير) is the Arabic term for exegesis, typically of the Qur'an. An author of a tafsir is a mufassir (Arabic: مُفسّر). Tafsir is one of the earliest academic activities of Muslims. Understanding the Qur'an is considered a religious duty by Muslims. The process of interpretation is known as tafsir.
Etymology
The word tafsir is derived from the Arabic root F-S-R which means to explain, to expound, or to interpret. In Islamic context, it has been used to describe the explanation and interpretation of the Qur'an.
Types of Tafsir
There are several types of tafsir, each using different methodologies for deriving the meaning. These include:
Tafsir bi-al-riwaya
Tafsir bi-al-riwaya, also known as Tafsir bi-al-ma'thur, is tafsir that relies on transmission. This method uses reports, or riwaya, from the early Muslims to provide commentary on the Qur'an.
Tafsir bi-al-diraya
Tafsir bi-al-diraya, also known as Tafsir bi-al-ra'y, is tafsir that relies on reason. This method uses independent reasoning, or ijtihad, to provide commentary on the Qur'an.
Tafsir by the Sufi
Tafsir by the Sufi involves commentary of the Qur'an by the mystics of Islam, the Sufis. This form of tafsir has been criticized by some scholars due to its reliance on personal spiritual experiences.
Methodology
The methodology of tafsir is governed by a set of principles derived from the Qur'an and Hadith. These principles include:
Understanding the Arabic language
The Qur'an was revealed in Arabic, and understanding the language is key to understanding the Qur'an. This includes knowledge of Arabic grammar, syntax, morphology, and rhetoric.
Knowledge of the Qur'an
A mufassir must have a deep understanding of the Qur'an, its themes, its structure, and its style. This includes knowledge of the reasons for revelation (asbab al-nuzul), the abrogated and abrogating verses (al-nasikh wa'l-mansukh), and the general and specific verses (al-'amm wa'l-khass).
Knowledge of Hadith
The Hadith, sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, are a key source of tafsir. A mufassir must have knowledge of Hadith, including its collection, its classification, and its interpretation.
Knowledge of the consensus of scholars
The consensus of scholars, or ijma', is another source of tafsir. A mufassir must have knowledge of the consensus of scholars on various issues related to the Qur'an.
Major Works
There are many works of tafsir, some of which are considered major due to their comprehensive coverage of the Qur'an, their methodology, or their influence. These include:
Tafsir al-Tabari
Tafsir al-Tabari is a tafsir by the Persian scholar Tabari. It is considered one of the most important and influential works of tafsir.
Tafsir al-Qurtubi
Tafsir al-Qurtubi is a tafsir by the Andalusian scholar Qurtubi. It is known for its comprehensive coverage of legal issues.
Tafsir al-Baghawi
Tafsir al-Baghawi, also known as Ma'alim al-Tanzil, is a tafsir by the Persian scholar Baghawi. It is known for its clear and concise style.
Tafsir Ibn Kathir
Tafsir Ibn Kathir is a tafsir by the Syrian scholar Ibn Kathir. It is known for its reliance on Hadith.