Bi al-Ma’thur Tafsir: A Comprehensive Study of Its Definition, Scope, Historical Development, and the Factors Shaping Divergent Interpretations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15575/mjiat.v5i2.52388Keywords:
Bi al-Ma'tsur, Mufassir, Tafsir, sourcesAbstract
Tafsir bi al-ma’thur is one of the essential sources in Qur’anic exegesis and holds a fundamental position. The primary sources of tafsir bi al-ma’thur include interpreting the Qur’an by the Qur’an, the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and the explanations of the Companions and the Successors (Tabi‘in). This study aims to examine the sources of tafsir bi al-ma’thur in Qur’anic interpretation comprehensively by exploring its definition, scope, and historical development, the factors that contribute to scholarly differences regarding its sources, as well as the existence and transformation of tafsir bi al-ma’thur in the modern era. This research employs a qualitative, library-based approach. The findings reveal that tafsir bi al-ma’thur constitutes one of the main and most authoritative sources in interpreting the Qur’an, emphasizing key aspects that must be considered by exegetes in order to produce valid and sound interpretations in accordance with Islamic principles—namely, relying on the Qur’an, the authentic prophetic traditions, and the explanations of the Companions and Tabi‘in. Historically, these materials have developed since the time of the Prophet and gradually expanded until they reached the stage of codification. This study also finds that the boundaries of tafsir bi al-ma’thur remain a subject of debate among scholars. While many agree that the Qur’an, Hadith, and the statements of the Companions and Tabi‘in are core sources, some scholars dispute whether the interpretations of the Tabi‘in should be fully classified under tafsir bi al-ma’thur. Furthermore, the research identifies several factors that cause differences of opinion regarding these sources, including variations in criteria for validating chains of transmission (sanad), scholarly background, doctrinal orientation, attitudes toward Isra’iliyyat narrations, and socio-political influences on the evolution of tafsir. The study concludes that although pure tafsir bi al-ma’thur is rarely found in the modern era, its sources continue to serve as an essential epistemological foundation for contemporary Qur’anic interpretation.
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