Tafsir of the Qur’an SS1 Islamic Studies Lesson Note

Tafsir is the Arabic word for explaining or interpreting the Qur’an. It helps us understand the meanings of the Qur’an’s verses. The Qur’an is Allah’s word sent to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and Tafsir helps us know what Allah wants to tell us through His words. This lesson will explain what Tafsir is, why it is important, and how scholars do Tafsir.

What is Tafsir?

– Tafsir comes from the Arabic word “fassara,” which means to explain or make clear

– It is the study that helps us understand the meanings of the Qur’an

– Tafsir explains difficult words, tells us why verses were revealed, and shows how to follow the Qur’an’s teachings

– Tafsir is one of the most important Islamic sciences

Why Do We Need Tafsir?

1. The Qur’an has many levels of meaning

   – Some verses are clear and easy to understand

   – Other verses need explanation to understand fully

   – Some words in the Qur’an can have several meanings

2. Historical context matters

   – Knowing when and why a verse was revealed helps us understand it better

   – Some verses were revealed for specific situations

   – Understanding these situations helps us apply the verses correctly

3. Language differences

   – The Qur’an was revealed in Arabic

   – People who don’t know Arabic need help understanding the original meanings

   – Even Arabic speakers today might not understand some old Arabic words

4. Proper application

   – Tafsir helps us know how to follow the Qur’an’s teachings in our daily lives

   – It shows us how to apply general principles to specific situations

   – It helps us avoid misunderstanding or misusing verses

Sources of Tafsir

1. The Qur’an Itself

– Some verses of the Qur’an explain other verses

– This is the best source of Tafsir

– Example: The word “dhulm” in Surah Al-An’am is explained in Surah Luqman as “shirk” (associating partners with Allah)

2. Prophet Muhammad’s Explanations

– The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the first person to explain the Qur’an

– Allah says in the Qur’an: “We have sent down to you the Reminder so that you may explain to people what has been sent down to them” (16:44)

– His explanations are found in Hadith (records of his sayings and actions)

3. Explanations by the Companions

– The Companions lived with the Prophet and learned directly from him

– They witnessed when and why verses were revealed

– Famous Companions who did Tafsir include:

  – Abdullah ibn Abbas (called “The Interpreter of the Qur’an”)

  – Ali ibn Abi Talib

  – Abdullah ibn Mas’ud

  – Ubayy ibn Ka’b

4. Language and Grammar

– Understanding Arabic grammar helps explain the Qur’an

– Knowing the meanings of words as they were used at the time of revelation

– Poetry from pre-Islamic and early Islamic times helps understand words

5. Reason and Thinking

– Scholars use their knowledge and thinking to understand verses

– This must be based on strong knowledge of Islam

– It should not contradict the Qur’an or authentic Hadith

Types of Tafsir

1. Tafsir bil-Ma’thur (Based on Narration)

– Explains the Qur’an using the Qur’an itself, Hadith, and sayings of Companions

– Considered the most reliable type of Tafsir

– Example: Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Tafsir At-Tabari

2. Tafsir bir-Ra’y (Based on Opinion)

– Uses reason and knowledge to explain verses

– Must follow proper rules and not contradict Islamic teachings

– Can be:

  – Praiseworthy: When based on sound knowledge

  – Blameworthy: When based on personal desires or lack of knowledge

3. Tafsir Mawdu’i (Thematic)

– Collects all verses about one topic and explains them together

– Helps understand the Qur’an’s complete teaching on a subject

– Example: Verses about prayer, fasting, or marriage

4. Tafsir Ishari (Spiritual)

– Focuses on spiritual and moral lessons

– Usually done by Sufis (Muslim mystics)

– Must not contradict the apparent meaning of verses

Famous Books of Tafsir

1. Tafsir At-Tabari by Ibn Jarir At-Tabari

– One of the earliest complete works of Tafsir

– Focuses on narrations from the Prophet and Companions

– Very detailed and comprehensive

2. Tafsir Ibn Kathir by Ibn Kathir

– Very popular and widely used

– Focuses on authentic narrations

– Written in clear and simple language

3. Tafsir Al-Qurtubi by Imam Al-Qurtubi

– Focuses on legal rulings from verses

– Discusses different opinions of scholars

– Includes language analysis

4. Tafsir Al-Kashshaf by Az-Zamakhshari

– Famous for its language analysis

– Focuses on grammar and rhetoric

– Contains some problematic theological views

5. Fi Zilal Al-Qur’an by Sayyid Qutb

– Modern Tafsir focusing on practical guidance

– Relates the Qur’an to contemporary issues

– Written in accessible language

Rules for Proper Tafsir

1. Start with the Qur’an itself

   – Look for explanations within the Qur’an first

2. Use authentic Hadith

   – Only use reliable sayings of the Prophet

   – Avoid weak or fabricated Hadith

3. Understand the language

   – Know the meanings of words as used during revelation

   – Understand Arabic grammar rules

4. Know the context

   – Understand when and why verses were revealed (Asbab An-Nuzul)

   – Know the customs and history of that time

5. Consider all relevant verses

   – Look at all verses about a topic, not just one

   – Don’t take verses out of context

6. Avoid personal bias

   – Don’t let your own opinions change the meaning

   – Follow the evidence, not your desires

7. Respect the consensus of scholars

   – Be careful about contradicting what scholars agree upon

   – Know the different opinions before making conclusions

Benefits of Studying Tafsir

1. Better understanding of the Qur’an

   – Helps us know what Allah is telling us

   – Clears up confusion about meanings

2. Stronger faith

   – Understanding the Qur’an increases our faith

   – Helps us feel closer to Allah

3. Better practice of Islam

   – Helps us follow the Qur’an correctly

   – Shows us how to apply its teachings in our lives

4. Protection from mistakes

   – Prevents us from misunderstanding verses

   – Helps us avoid following wrong interpretations

5. Deeper appreciation

   – Shows us the beauty and wisdom of the Qur’an

   – Helps us see how perfect and amazing the Qur’an is

How to Start Studying Tafsir

1. Start with easy books

   – Begin with simple Tafsir books designed for beginners

   – Gradually move to more detailed works

2. Focus on one surah at a time

   – Study one chapter completely before moving to another

   – This helps you understand the context better

3. Join classes or listen to lectures

   – Learn from knowledgeable teachers

   – Ask questions when you don’t understand something

4. Compare different Tafsir books

   – Look at how different scholars explain the same verses

   – This gives you a broader understanding

5. Apply what you learn

   – Use the knowledge to improve your character and actions

   – The purpose of Tafsir is not just knowledge but practice

Conclusion

Tafsir is essential for properly understanding the Qur’an. It helps us know what Allah wants to tell us through His words. By studying Tafsir, we can understand the Qur’an’s meanings more deeply, avoid misunderstandings, and apply its teachings correctly in our lives. 

The best Tafsir uses the Qur’an to explain itself, followed by authentic sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), explanations from his Companions, and proper understanding of the Arabic language. We should be careful to follow proper rules when studying or doing Tafsir to avoid mistakes.

By learning Tafsir, we not only gain knowledge but also strengthen our faith and improve our practice of Islam. This makes Tafsir one of the most valuable and important Islamic sciences that every Muslim should try to learn according to their ability.

Tafsir is the Arabic word for explaining or interpreting the Qur’an. It helps us understand the meanings of the Qur’an’s verses. The Qur’an is Allah’s word sent to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and Tafsir helps us know what Allah wants to tell us through His words. This lesson will explain what Tafsir is, why it is important, and how scholars do Tafsir.

What is Tafsir?

– Tafsir comes from the Arabic word “fassara,” which means to explain or make clear

– It is the study that helps us understand the meanings of the Qur’an

– Tafsir explains difficult words, tells us why verses were revealed, and shows how to follow the Qur’an’s teachings

– Tafsir is one of the most important Islamic sciences

Why Do We Need Tafsir?

1. The Qur’an has many levels of meaning

   – Some verses are clear and easy to understand

   – Other verses need explanation to understand fully

   – Some words in the Qur’an can have several meanings

2. Historical context matters

   – Knowing when and why a verse was revealed helps us understand it better

   – Some verses were revealed for specific situations

   – Understanding these situations helps us apply the verses correctly

3. Language differences

   – The Qur’an was revealed in Arabic

   – People who don’t know Arabic need help understanding the original meanings

   – Even Arabic speakers today might not understand some old Arabic words

4. Proper application

   – Tafsir helps us know how to follow the Qur’an’s teachings in our daily lives

   – It shows us how to apply general principles to specific situations

   – It helps us avoid misunderstanding or misusing verses

Sources of Tafsir

1. The Qur’an Itself

– Some verses of the Qur’an explain other verses

– This is the best source of Tafsir

– Example: The word “dhulm” in Surah Al-An’am is explained in Surah Luqman as “shirk” (associating partners with Allah)

2. Prophet Muhammad’s Explanations

– The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the first person to explain the Qur’an

– Allah says in the Qur’an: “We have sent down to you the Reminder so that you may explain to people what has been sent down to them” (16:44)

– His explanations are found in Hadith (records of his sayings and actions)

3. Explanations by the Companions

– The Companions lived with the Prophet and learned directly from him

– They witnessed when and why verses were revealed

– Famous Companions who did Tafsir include:

  – Abdullah ibn Abbas (called “The Interpreter of the Qur’an”)

  – Ali ibn Abi Talib

  – Abdullah ibn Mas’ud

  – Ubayy ibn Ka’b

4. Language and Grammar

– Understanding Arabic grammar helps explain the Qur’an

– Knowing the meanings of words as they were used at the time of revelation

– Poetry from pre-Islamic and early Islamic times helps understand words

5. Reason and Thinking

– Scholars use their knowledge and thinking to understand verses

– This must be based on strong knowledge of Islam

– It should not contradict the Qur’an or authentic Hadith

Types of Tafsir

1. Tafsir bil-Ma’thur (Based on Narration)

– Explains the Qur’an using the Qur’an itself, Hadith, and sayings of Companions

– Considered the most reliable type of Tafsir

– Example: Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Tafsir At-Tabari

2. Tafsir bir-Ra’y (Based on Opinion)

– Uses reason and knowledge to explain verses

– Must follow proper rules and not contradict Islamic teachings

– Can be:

  – Praiseworthy: When based on sound knowledge

  – Blameworthy: When based on personal desires or lack of knowledge

3. Tafsir Mawdu’i (Thematic)

– Collects all verses about one topic and explains them together

– Helps understand the Qur’an’s complete teaching on a subject

– Example: Verses about prayer, fasting, or marriage

4. Tafsir Ishari (Spiritual)

– Focuses on spiritual and moral lessons

– Usually done by Sufis (Muslim mystics)

– Must not contradict the apparent meaning of verses

Famous Books of Tafsir

1. Tafsir At-Tabari by Ibn Jarir At-Tabari

– One of the earliest complete works of Tafsir

– Focuses on narrations from the Prophet and Companions

– Very detailed and comprehensive

2. Tafsir Ibn Kathir by Ibn Kathir

– Very popular and widely used

– Focuses on authentic narrations

– Written in clear and simple language

3. Tafsir Al-Qurtubi by Imam Al-Qurtubi

– Focuses on legal rulings from verses

– Discusses different opinions of scholars

– Includes language analysis

4. Tafsir Al-Kashshaf by Az-Zamakhshari

– Famous for its language analysis

– Focuses on grammar and rhetoric

– Contains some problematic theological views

5. Fi Zilal Al-Qur’an by Sayyid Qutb

– Modern Tafsir focusing on practical guidance

– Relates the Qur’an to contemporary issues

– Written in accessible language

Rules for Proper Tafsir

1. Start with the Qur’an itself

   – Look for explanations within the Qur’an first

2. Use authentic Hadith

   – Only use reliable sayings of the Prophet

   – Avoid weak or fabricated Hadith

3. Understand the language

   – Know the meanings of words as used during revelation

   – Understand Arabic grammar rules

4. Know the context

   – Understand when and why verses were revealed (Asbab An-Nuzul)

   – Know the customs and history of that time

5. Consider all relevant verses

   – Look at all verses about a topic, not just one

   – Don’t take verses out of context

6. Avoid personal bias

   – Don’t let your own opinions change the meaning

   – Follow the evidence, not your desires

7. Respect the consensus of scholars

   – Be careful about contradicting what scholars agree upon

   – Know the different opinions before making conclusions

Benefits of Studying Tafsir

1. Better understanding of the Qur’an

   – Helps us know what Allah is telling us

   – Clears up confusion about meanings

2. Stronger faith

   – Understanding the Qur’an increases our faith

   – Helps us feel closer to Allah

3. Better practice of Islam

   – Helps us follow the Qur’an correctly

   – Shows us how to apply its teachings in our lives

4. Protection from mistakes

   – Prevents us from misunderstanding verses

   – Helps us avoid following wrong interpretations

5. Deeper appreciation

   – Shows us the beauty and wisdom of the Qur’an

   – Helps us see how perfect and amazing the Qur’an is

How to Start Studying Tafsir

1. Start with easy books

   – Begin with simple Tafsir books designed for beginners

   – Gradually move to more detailed works

2. Focus on one surah at a time

   – Study one chapter completely before moving to another

   – This helps you understand the context better

3. Join classes or listen to lectures

   – Learn from knowledgeable teachers

   – Ask questions when you don’t understand something

4. Compare different Tafsir books

   – Look at how different scholars explain the same verses

   – This gives you a broader understanding

5. Apply what you learn

   – Use the knowledge to improve your character and actions

   – The purpose of Tafsir is not just knowledge but practice

Conclusion

Tafsir is essential for properly understanding the Qur’an. It helps us know what Allah wants to tell us through His words. By studying Tafsir, we can understand the Qur’an’s meanings more deeply, avoid misunderstandings, and apply its teachings correctly in our lives. 

The best Tafsir uses the Qur’an to explain itself, followed by authentic sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), explanations from his Companions, and proper understanding of the Arabic language. We should be careful to follow proper rules when studying or doing Tafsir to avoid mistakes.

By learning Tafsir, we not only gain knowledge but also strengthen our faith and improve our practice of Islam. This makes Tafsir one of the most valuable and important Islamic sciences that every Muslim should try to learn according to their ability.