"Abu. al-Qāsim al-Qushayrī (b. 376), the author of al-Risāilah (Epistle to the Sufis), one of the earliest manuals of the science of taṣawwuf, was also a mufassir who wrote a complete commentary of the Qurʼan. His work is regarded as the first original mystical commentary written by a man who was both a theologian and a sufi. It is also considered a fusion of both the Sharīʻah and Ṭarīqah, bridging the gap between the ʻulamāʼ and the sufis, during a time when the friction between sufis and traditional ʻulamāʼ was at its peak with both sides accusing each other of deviating from Islam. In studying this historic tafsīr, the author first discusses the science of Qurʼanic exegesis and its development from the earliest days. He discusses briefly the history of early tafsīr works, the various kinds of tafsīrs and their historical and political backgrounds. He also aims to show how sufi scholars have given a new life to the interpretation of the Qur'an."-- Book cover

This work brings together a collection of commentaries, translated from the original Arabic, on some of the key passages of the Qu'ran. Presenting the views of classical and modern commentators, it focuses on topics such as God, Muhammad, revelation, and Muslim beliefs and duties

Generating precise comprehension of the Quran and the true meaning of its verses is arguably the essence of the most important of the Islamic sciences, Qur’anic exegesis or tafsÏr. Since the passing of the Prophet many scholars have worked hard to bring a proper understanding of the meaning of the Qur’an to Muslims, and indeed to the world at large, as fully as possible, in an attempt to widen knowledge of the guidance contained therein, and how to live life in accordance with its principles. The result has been a wealth of historical Muslim literature on the subject which has come to be known as Ulum al-Tafsir or the sciences of tafsir, a systematic exegesis of the Qur’an following several methodologies. This work traces the evolution of Qur’anic exegesis, from the time of the Prophet, the Companions, the Successors, the early mufassirun (exegetes) with independent tafsir works, to the present day. In doing so, it addresses some major issues including to what extent has tafsir been influenced by differing theological traditions (classical, mystical sufi, persian), political and sectarian interests etc. and how interpretation has differed in some cases, mainly pertaining to juridical, theological, historical, and linguistic issues. Certain scholars and Qur’anic commentaries have stood the test of time and stand in greater prominence to others. Their works are introduced, and different methodologies compared and critiqued. What we are left with is a broad yet important overview of a subject which otherwise can be too complex and extensive for the ordinary reader to grasp acting as a valuable addition to his/her understanding and study of the Qur’anic text.

Writings in learned subjects from the period eighth to thirteenth centuries, AD.