The Contribution of Muslim Scholars to Linguistic Investigation of The Qur’ān in 3rd Century AH

إسهامات علماء القرن الثالث الھجري في التفسير اللغوي

Abstract

The third century hijrī holds profound significance in the linguistic exploration of the Qur’ān. This era witnessed pivotal exegetical developments that laid the foundations for the subsequent centuries. furthermore, the field of Qur’ānic studies experienced substantial progress, primarily attributed to numerous works during this period. Prominent among these contributions are seminal works delving into the linguistic characteristics of the Qur’ān. Noteworthy examples include “Majāz ul Qur’ān” by Abū ʻUbaida Maʻmar b. al Muthannā (d.210/826) and “Al Maʻānī al- Qur’ān” authored by both Al Farrā (d.207/823) and Al Akhfash. These works have left an indelible mark on the scholarly discourse surrounding the Qur’ān linguistic intricacies. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the Tafsīr genre during the third Islamic hijrī. Additionally, it will delve into the specific methodologies and trends employed in these exegetical works, with a specific emphasis on the contributions of prominent figures such as Muḥammad b. Idrīs al Shāfʻeī, al Farrrā and Abū ʻUbaida.