The Commentary On The Quran Vol. 2 By Al-tabari ^hot^ Link

Many early commentaries before Al-Tabari have been lost to history. Because Al-Tabari quoted his predecessors extensively, Volume 2 acts as an archive preserving the thoughts of early scholars like Ibn Abbas, Mujahid, and Qatadah.

For the non-Arab, Volume 2 is a masterclass in classical Arabic poetry. To explain a rare word in Al-Baqarah , Al-Tabari quotes pre-Islamic poets like Zuhayr or Imru' al-Qais. It is impossible to truly understand the "inimitability of the Quran" without seeing how Al-Tabari deconstructs its grammar.

Before al-Tabari, Quranic commentary existed primarily as scattered statements attributed to the Prophet Muhammad, his companions (Sahaba), and the subsequent generation of scholars (Tabi'un). Al-Tabari's genius lay in his ability to gather these disparate narrations, categorize them, and subject them to strict linguistic and legal analysis. Understanding Volume 2: Context and Scope

Al-Tabari's commentary is considered one of the most important and influential works on Quranic exegesis in Islamic history. Its significance can be attributed to several factors: The Commentary On The Quran Vol. 2 By Al-tabari

He presents differing theological and legal opinions with remarkable neutrality before offering his own critique, providing an objective map of 9th-century sectarian and scholastic thought.

This specific volume—part of a wider ongoing translation effort by Oxford University Press and other academic institutions—is not merely a book; it is a time machine and a masterclass in classical hermeneutics. It allows the modern reader to sit at the feet of one of Islam’s greatest polymaths, Abu Ja’far Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari (839–923 CE). For students of theology, history, and Arabic literature, understanding Volume 2 is essential to grasping how early Muslims understood the Word of God.

Whether you are a university scholar, a seminary student, or a lay Muslim seeking depth, offers unique advantages. Many early commentaries before Al-Tabari have been lost

One of the most fascinating sections in early tafsir literature is the discussion of why Muslims stopped praying toward Jerusalem and turned toward Mecca. Al-Tabari compiles reports describing the anxiety of the early Muslim community in Medina. Volume 2 meticulously records the Jewish objections to this change and provides the Quranic rebuttal. Al-Tabari concludes with a powerful legal maxim: Obedience to God’s current command (facing the Kaaba) is superior to clinging to a previous law (facing Jerusalem).

Volume 2 highlights al-Tabari’s balanced handling of sensitive theological matters: Abrogation (Al-Nasikh wal-Mansukh)

: This volume includes commentary on specific chapters and verses such as The Companies The Beneficent Sovereignty ), and the final short Surahs like Methodology : Al-Tabari is noted for his comprehensive use of To explain a rare word in Al-Baqarah ,

This volume covers arguably the most famous verse of the Quran. Al-Tabari’s commentary on Ayat al-Kursi is a theological masterpiece. He discusses the attributes of Allah ("The Living, the Sustainer"), explaining how the Arabic grammar ( isim jins ) implies the absolute, infinite nature of God. He rejects anthropomorphism (comparing God to creation) by citing early reports that treat the "Hands of God" metaphorically.

As a jurist who founded his own short-lived school of law (the Jariri school), al-Tabari utilizes Volume 2 to dissect the legal verses (Ayat al-Ahkam) found in Surah Al-Baqarah. This includes early directives regarding:

) from the Prophet Muhammad, his Companions (Sahabah), and the next generation of scholars (Tabi'in). Linguistic Depth : The work includes extensive analysis of Arabic grammar

In Volume 2, al-Tabari addresses complex theological questions, including the nature of faith (iman), hypocrisy (nifaq), and divine guidance. He systematically unpacks the verses describing the spiritual blindness of those who reject truth, balancing the concepts of human free will and divine omnipotence. 2. Legal Rulings and Social Order

) and core theological themes like the nature of God and the afterlife. New York University Surahs Highlighted in Selections (Vol. 2)