Tafsir

Tafsir (Arabic: تَفْسِير), a term literally meaning “explanation”, “interpretation” or “commentary” [11], is the Islamic science devoted to the exegesis of the Quran, the sacred book of Islam. This fundamental discipline aims to elucidate the meaning of Quranic verses, taking into account their linguistic, historical, legal, theological and spiritual contexts. Tafsir does not limit itself to a literal translation, but seeks to reveal the multiple levels of meaning of the Quranic text, in order to guide believers in their understanding and practice of religion.

Definition, Etymology and Origin

  • Etymology: The word “Tafsir” derives from the triliteral Arabic root “f-s-r” (ف س ر), which carries the notions of explaining, clarifying, unveiling or making explicit what is implicit[6]. This root evokes the idea of lifting the veil on a hidden meaning, of making comprehensible what is obscure.
  • Terminological definition: According to the eminent scholar Az-Zarkachi (d. 794 H / 1392), Tafsir is defined as “the science of understanding the Book of God revealed to His Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), explaining its meanings, and extracting judgments and wisdom from it”[4]. This definition highlights the main aims of Tafsir: to understand the Qur’anic text, clarify its meaning and deduce practical teachings from it.
  • Appearance in the Qur’an: The term “Tafsir” appears explicitly only once in the Qur’an, in Sura Al-Furqan (The Discernment), verse 33: “They will not bring you any parable unless We bring you the truth with the best interpretation(Tafsiran).” [9]. This verse underlines the importance of interpretation for a correct and deep understanding of the divine message. It also suggests that the Prophet Muhammad himself received from God the ability to explain the Quran.

Objectives and Importance of Tafsir

Tafsir occupies a central place in the Islamic sciences and is of crucial importance for several reasons:

  1. Understanding the Divine Message: The Quran is considered by Muslims to be the literal word of God. Tafsir aims to make this divine message accessible and comprehensible to the human intellect [6]. It enables us to grasp the nuances, subtleties and depths of the Quranic text, revealing the richness and complexity of revelation.
  2. Avoiding Misunderstandings and Misinterpretations : At the time of revelation, the Quran was not vocalized, i.e. short vowels were not indicated in writing[10]. This could lead to ambiguities or difficulties in understanding. Tafsir, based on the explanations of the Prophet and early Muslims, played an essential role in clarifying the meaning of verses and avoiding misinterpretation.
  3. Extracting legal and practical teachings: The Quran is the primary source of Islamic law (Sharia). Tafsir extracts the legal, ethical and moral teachings contained in the sacred text, to guide believers in their daily lives. It helps them understand how to apply Quranic principles in different contexts and situations.
  4. Nurturing spirituality: Tafsir is not limited to a literal or legal analysis of the Quranic. It also explores the spiritual and ethical dimensions of the text, helping believers to deepen their relationship with God and develop their spirituality.
  5. Preserving the Authenticity of the Qur’anic Message: By establishing rigorous principles and methods of interpretation, Tafsir helps preserve the authenticity of the Qur’anic message across generations. It helps to distinguish between valid interpretations, based on solid sources, and subjective or deviant interpretations.

Types of Tafsir: Two Complementary Approaches

There are traditionally two main categories of Tafsir, reflecting different methodological approaches:

  1. Tafsir bi al-Ma’thur (Traditional Exegesis or Exegesis by Narration): This type of Tafsir relies on scriptural and traditional Islamic sources to interpret the Qur’an. It focuses on explaining the Qur’an through :
    • The Qur’an itself: Many Qur’anic verses are self-explanatory. One verse may clarify the meaning of another verse, or provide additional details on a subject mentioned elsewhere in the Qur’an.
    • The Sunna (Prophetic Tradition): The Sunna, which encompasses the words, deeds and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad, is the second source of Islam. Authentic hadiths (accounts of the Prophet’s words and deeds) are used to clarify the meaning of Quranic verses. The Prophet is considered the first and best interpreter of the Qur’an.
    • The Words of the Prophet’s Companions (Sahaba): The Prophet’s companions, who lived alongside him and were directly taught by him, are considered reliable sources for interpreting the Qur’an. Their explanations are particularly valuable for understanding the context of revelation and the circumstances in which the verses were revealed.
    • The Words of the Companions’ Successors (Tabi’in): The generation that followed that of the Companions, known as Tabi’in, also played an important role in the transmission of Islamic knowledge, including the exegesis of the Qur’an. Ibn Kathir (1301-1373), one of the most famous exegetes, recommends this methodological approach in his introduction to his Tafsir: “If someone asks: ‘What is the best method of exegesis?’ The answer is: ‘The most correct method is to explain the Quran by the Quran. What is mentioned generally in one place is explained in detail in another. If you have a problem with this, then you should turn to the Sunna, for it explains the Qur’an'” [5].
  2. Tafsir bi al-Ra’y (Exegesis by Reasoned Opinion or Exegesis by Interpretation):This type of Tafsir calls for intellectual effort(ijtihad), rational analysis, deduction and personal interpretation, while remaining consistent with the fundamental principles of Islam [2]. Tafsir bi al-Ra’y is generally divided into two categories:
    • Tafsir Mahmoud (Praiseworthy): This is exegesis by opinion that conforms to the principles of the Sharia, the rules of the Arabic language and the teachings of the Quran and Sunna.
    • Tafsir Madhmoum (Blamable): This is exegesis that contradicts scriptural sources, the established principles of Islam or the rules of the Arabic language. It is rejected by scholars because it can lead to erroneous or deviant interpretations. Tafsir bi al-Ra’y enables us to understand Quranic verses in the light of contemporary realities, answer new questions and meet the intellectual challenges of each age.

Difference between Tafsir and Ta’wil

Although the terms “Tafsir” and “Ta’wil” are often used interchangeably, some scholars draw a distinction between the two [8]:

  • Tafsir: Focuses primarily on the apparent meaning(zahir) of the Quranic text, based on traditional sources (Quran, Sunna, sayings of the Companions). It seeks to establish the literal and contextual meaning of verses.
  • Ta’wil: Explores deeper, allegorical or esoteric(batin) meanings of the Quranic text. It is an interpretation that goes beyond the literal meaning, seeking to reveal hidden or symbolic meanings. Ta’wil must always be consistent with the fundamental principles of Islam, and must not contradict the apparent meaning of the text, except where necessary or clearly indicated.

Qualities required of a Moufassir (Exegete)

Interpreting the Quran is a noble but demanding task, requiring specific skills and qualities. A mufassir (exegete) must possess :

  1. Sincere Faith and Pure Intention: Exegesis of the Qur’an must be undertaken with sincere faith in God and a pure intention to seek the truth and guide people.
  2. Perfect command of the Arabic language: The Quran was revealed in classical Arabic. A thorough knowledge of the grammar, syntax, rhetoric, semantics and subtleties of the Arabic language is indispensable for understanding the Quranic text [1][10].
  3. In-depth knowledge of the Islamic sciences: A Mufassir must have a sound knowledge of the various Islamic sciences, including :
    • Hadith and the Science of Hadith: To be able to use the Sunna correctly in interpreting the Quran.
    • Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh): To understand the legal implications of Quranic verses.
    • Islamic theology (‘Aqida): to interpret verses relating to God, His attributes and the fundamental beliefs of Islam.
    • Circumstances of Revelation (Asbab al-Nuzul): Knowledge of the historical context and circumstances in which the verses were revealed is essential for correct interpretation.
    • Abrogation and Abrogated (Naskh wa Mansukh): Some verses in the Qur’an have been abrogated by other verses revealed later. The mufassir must be aware of these abrogations to avoid apparent contradictions.
  4. A Clear Understanding of the Qur’an’s Historical and Cultural Context: The Qur’an was revealed in a specific historical and cultural context. A clear understanding of this context is necessary to correctly interpret the verses [1][10].
  5. Moral integrity and piety: A Mufassir must be a person of integrity, piety and God-fear. He must strive to live in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunna.
  6. Humility and Awareness of Limits: Exegesis of the Quran is an immense and complex task. A Mufassir must be aware of his own limitations and not hesitate to consult other scholars or admit his ignorance on certain points.

Main exegetes and major works

Many scholars have contributed to the enrichment of the science of Tafsir over the centuries. Among the most famous are:

  1. Al-Tabari (839-923):
    • Full name: Abu Ja’far Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari.
    • Main work: Jami’ al-Bayan fi Ta’wil al-Qur’an (The Collection of Explanations in the Interpretation of the Qur’an), also known as Tafsir al-Tabari.
    • Features: His Tafsir is considered one of the most comprehensive and influential. He compiles the interpretations of the Prophet’s companions, the Tabi’in and other scholars, while giving his own opinion and analyzing different views [3][5]. It is an essential reference for students and researchers of Quranic sciences.
  2. Ibn Kathir (1301-1373):
    • Full name: Isma’il ibn ‘Umar ibn Kathir al-Dimashqi.
    • Main work: Tafsir al-Qur’an al-‘Azim (The Exegesis of the Great Qur’an), also known as Tafsir Ibn Kathir.
    • Features: His Tafsir is particularly appreciated for its methodical approach, based on explaining the Qur’an through the Qur’an, then through the Sunnah [5]. It is renowned for its clarity, conciseness and accessibility. It is widely used in the Muslim world and has been translated into many languages.
  3. Al-Qurtubi (1214-1273):
    • Full name: Abu ‘Abd Allah Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Ansari al-Qurtubi.
    • Main work: Al-Jami’ li Ahkam al-Qur’an (The Collection of Qur’anic Judgments), also known as Tafsir al-Qurtubi.
    • Features: His Tafsir focuses particularly on the legal aspects of the Quran. It details the rulings and rules deduced from Quranic verses, based on the various legal schools of Islam.
  4. Al-Zamakhshari (1075-1144):
    • Full name: Abu al-Qasim Mahmud ibn ‘Umar al-Zamakhshari.
    • Main work: Al-Kashshaf ‘an Haqa’iq al-Tanzil (The Unveiling of the Realities of Revelation).
    • Features: His Tafsir is renowned for its in-depth linguistic and rhetorical analysis of the Quran. He highlights the subtleties of the Arabic language and the stylistic aspects of the Quranic text. However, his adherence to the Mu’tazilite theological school drew criticism from some scholars.
  5. Al-Baydawi (d. 1286):
    • Full name: ‘Abd Allah ibn ‘Umar al-Baydawi.
    • Main work: Anwar al-Tanzil wa Asrar al-Ta’wil (The Lights of Revelation and the Secrets of Interpretation), also known as Tafsir al-Baydawi.
    • Features: His Tafsir is a synthesis of traditional exegesis and linguistic analysis. It is appreciated for its clarity and conciseness, and has been widely used in Islamic schools and universities.

Interpretation methods

Exegetes use a variety of methods and approaches to interpret the Qur’an:

  1. Explanation of the Qur’an by the Qur’an (Tafsir al-Qur’an bi al-Qur’an): This is considered the most reliable method. It consists in searching the Qur’an itself for elements that clarify the meaning of a verse. Many verses explain each other, and the Qur’an is considered its own best explanation.
  2. Explanation of the Qur’an through the Sunnah (Tafsir al-Qur’an bi al-Sunnah): The Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, as recorded in authentic hadith, is the second source of interpretation of the Qur’an. The Prophet’s mission was to explain and clarify the divine message.
  3. The Explanation of the Qur’an through the Words of the Companions (Tafsir al-Qur’an bi Aqwal al-Sahaba): The Prophet’s companions, who lived alongside him and witnessed revelation, have a privileged understanding of the Qur’an. Their words and explanations are considered an important source for interpretation.
  4. The Explanation of the Qur’an through the Words of the Successors (Tafsir al-Qur’an bi Aqwal al-Tabi’in): The Tabi’in, the generation that followed that of the Companions, also passed on a significant amount of knowledge relating to the interpretation of the Qur’an.
  5. Linguistic and Grammatical Analysis: A thorough understanding of the Arabic language, its grammar, syntax, rhetoric and semantic nuances, is essential for the correct interpretation of the Quran.
  6. Considering the Context of Revelation (Asbab al-Nuzul): Knowing the historical circumstances and context in which the verses were revealed helps to better understand their meaning and significance.
  7. Consideration of the General Principles of Islam: The interpretation of the Qur’an must always be in harmony with the fundamental principles of Islam, such as the oneness of God, justice, mercy and divine wisdom.

Conclusion

Tafsir is a fundamental Islamic science, indispensable for a deep and correct understanding of the Quran. It is a rigorous discipline that demands vast erudition, precise methodology and scrupulous respect for the traditional sources of Islam. Tafsir is not simply a superficial reading of the Quranic text, but a meticulous exploration of its multiple levels of meaning, a journey through the linguistic, historical, legal and spiritual riches of Islam’s sacred Book. Over the centuries, exegetes have helped to shed light on the divine message, enabling Muslims of all backgrounds to connect with the Quran, draw inspiration from it and put it into practice in their daily lives. Tafsir, whether based on classical works or incorporating modern approaches, remains an essential tool to guide believers in their quest for meaning and divine guidance. It is a bridge between revelation and the human intellect, between the past and the present, between the sacred text and the life of the believer.

References :

[1] https://lamosquedethouars.e-monsite.com/pages/c-est-quoi-un-tafsir.html
[2] https://islamqa.info/fr/answers/205290/exegese-dautorite-et-exegese-dopinion
[3] https://ia902807.us.archive.org/29/items/libislam-L0556-Tabari-commentaire-CoranT1_text/libislam-L0556-Tabari-commentaire-CoranT1_text.pdf
[4] https://lumieredufirdaws.fr/biographiec/histoire/le-tafsir-et-ses-principaux-exegetes/
[5] https://www.muslimshop.fr/essentiels-de-l-islam/tafsir-ibn-kathir-exegese-du-coran-c-834_838.html
[6] https://al-dirassa.com/fr/importance-du-tafsir-dans-etude-du-coran/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ssOM3MfNp0
[8] https://www.islamweb.net/fr/fatwa/74701/Qui-a-le-droit-dinterpr%C3%A9ter-le-Coran-Tafsir-ou-Tawil-
[9] https://sharepoint.uclouvain.be/sites/cismodoc/vocabulaire/Tafs%C3%AFr.pdf
[10] https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tafsir
[11] https://www.lescahiersdelislam.fr/glossary/Tafs%C4%ABr-%D8%AA%D9%8E%D9%81%D9%92%D8%B3%D9%90%D9%8A%D8%B1_gw93.html