Foundations of Qur’anic Exegesis

Foundations of Qur’anic Exegesis

The foundational course by Professor Dr. Abdel Fattah Khidr offers a well-founded academic introduction to the science of Qur’anic exegesis (Tafseer). It begins by highlighting the glorious status of the Qur’an and its rights upon the Muslim nation, while establishing the definition of Tafseer both linguistically and technically, as articulated by leading scholars such as Al-Ghazali, Abu Hayyan, and Al-Zarkashi.

As professor delves deeper, the course explores the origins and development of Tafseer, its primary sources among the companions and the followers (Tabi‘in), as well as the various schools and trends of interpretation throughout Islamic history. It distinguishes between transmitted exegesis (Tafsir bi’l-Ma’thur) and opinion-based interpretation, clarifying the difference between praiseworthy and blameworthy approaches.

He further sheds light on the foundational sources of Tafseer, outlining the correct methodologies for engaging with them, and warns against common pitfalls such as reliance on Isra’iliyyat and interpreting the Qur’an without proper knowledge. The course also provides a detailed study of the different classifications of Tafseer from multiple perspectives and intellectual orientations.

In addition, it presents the essential tools and disciplines required for a qualified Mufassir, including Arabic linguistics, rhetoric, jurisprudence, Qur’anic recitations, and other related sciences. It also highlights the key principles a mufassir must adhere to, as well as the errors to avoid. The course concludes with an examination of the methodologies of prominent exegetes such as Al-Baydawi and Al-Jalalayn, emphasizing their precision, conciseness, and depth of insight.

Altogether, it offers a comprehensive and structured framework for understanding the specialization of Qur’anic exegesis in a sound and disciplined scholarly manner.

Medium of instruction: Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)

Course Fee:

Life Time Purchase: $200 USD / 150 GBP or equivalent in other currencies.

Subscription:

• 1 year $100 USD / 75 GBP or equivalent in other currencies
• 6 months $70 / 53 GBP or equivalent in other currencies