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The topic of Tafseer is the most important topic of 'Uloom al-Quraan, since in many ways it is the primary goal of 'Uloom al-Quraan — to understand and implement the Qur'aan properly. This has also been the first topic of 'Uloom al-Quraan to have been written on, and without a doubt the one in which most of the works in this field have been written about.
I. The Definition of Tafseerand Ta'weel
The word 'Tafseercomes from fassara', which means, 'to explain, to expound, to elucidate, to interpret.'
The word Tafseer is the verbal noun of fassara', and means 'the explanation or interpretation of something.'
According to another opinion,[1] the word Tafseer is a transposition from s-f-r, which means, 'to expose, to uncover.' Thus, a woman who uncovers her face is called a 'saafirah', and the act of uncovering her face is called 'sufoor.' Therefore, according to this definition, Tafseer would mean uncovering the meanings and exposing the secrets of the Qur'aan. However, the stronger opinion is the first one, even though both of these meanings are correct.
In Islaamic sciences, Tafseer is defined to be: 'The science by which the Qur'aan is understood, its meanings explained, and its rulings derived.'[2]
Another common word that is heard in this subject is the word 'Ta'weel'.
What, then, is the difference, if any, between Tafseerand Ta'weel?
The word 'ta'weel' is from a-w-l, which means 'to return, to revert,' which implies going back to the original meaning of a word to see what its meanings and connotations are. The meanings of the word 'Ta'weel' were given earlier, and are repeated here.
The word 'Ta'weel' has three meanings:
1) To understand a word in light of one of its connotations, despite the fact that this connotation is not the primary intent of the word.
2) To explain a word or phrase.
3) The actuality of an event.
With these two definitions in mind, there are five main opinions as to the difference between Tafseer and Ta'weel, as follows: [3]
1) They are equivalent in meaning. This was the opinion of at-Tabaree (d. 310A.H.), as his commentary of the Qur'aan uses these two terms interchangeably.
2) Tafseer is used in explaining a word which carries only one meaning, whereas Ta'weel is used in choosing one of the connotations of a word that possesses many connotations.
3) According to al-Maatureedee (d. 333 A.H.), when the interpretation is based on certain knowledge, this is called Tafseer, whereas when it is based on personal reasoning (Ijtihaad), it is known as Ta'weel.
4) Aboo Taalib at-Tha'labee held the view that Tafseer was the explanation of the literal meaning of the verse, whereas Ta'weel was the actual intent behind the verse. For example, the Tafseer of the verse:
"Verily, your Lord is ever-Watchful" [89:14]
is that Allaah is aware of all that man does, but the ta'weel is that the verse is a warning to man not to lapse into sins or to belittle the commandments of Allaah.
5) Tafseer is meant to give the meanings of the individual words in a verse, whereas Ta'weel gives the meaning of the verse as a whole.
There is no one correct opinion amongst these five, since various authors use these two words in all of these meanings. However, the most common understanding in modern usage of the two words is the second one, namely that Tafseer is used to explain the meaning or intent of a verse which has only one connotation, whereas Ta'weel is used when one of the possible connotations of a verse or word is chosen over the others due to external factors.
II. The Necessity and Importance of Tafseer
The question arises: Why is there a need for Tafseer? After all, does not Allaah say in the Qur'aan: "Verily this Qur'aan leads to the path that is most right" [17:9] and thus everybody can find the Straight Path through this Book? And is not the Qur'aan a complete source of guidance in and of itself, as it says,
"And We have sent down the Book to you as an explanation for everything, a guidance, a mercy and glad tidings for Muslims" [16:89]
Indeed, it is true that anyone who approaches the Qur'aan with a pure heart, seeking the guidance of Allaah, will find it. As Allaah says,
"This (Qur'aan) is a declaration for mankind, a guidance and an admonition for those who ward off evil" [3:138]
But this in no way implies that a person who is unaware of the numerous hadeeth of the Prophet (SAW) in explaining the Qur'aan, and of the reasons behind the revelation of specific verses, and of the intricacies of Arabic grammar and principles of rhetoric, and of the various qiraaat, and of the knowledge of the abrogated rulings, and of all of the other topics of 'Uloom al-Qur aan will benefit from the Qur'aan to the same degree that a person who does know these facts will. For example, an Arabic linguist or grammarian might be able to see a certain wisdom behind the phrasing of a verse that the average person may not. A person specialised in the topics of 'Uloom al-Qur aan will be better able to grasp the intended meanings of a verse, and derive rulings from it, in contrast to the average layman, who is not qualified to derive rulings from the Qur'aan.
As-Suyootee also discusses the necessity of 'Tafseer in his al-Itqaan.[4] He begins by stating that it is a known fact that Allaah communicates with man in a way that the will be able to understand. This is the reason that every messenger has been sent in the language of his people. However, there are three basic reasons why Tafseer is necessary despite these facts. First of all, Allaah uses the most clear, eloquent and concise language, and in doing so the meaning is clear to those who are well-grounded in the Arabic language, but not so clear to those who are not.
Secondly, the Qur'aan itself does not always mention the events or references for which each particular verse was revealed, and these must be known in order for the verse to be fully and totally understood. Lastly, some words may have multiple meanings, and it is the job of the person that does Tafseer to explain what is meant by the word.
It can be said that the purpose of Tafseer is to elaborate the principles which the Qur'aan came to clarify:[5]
1) The elaboration of a perfect set of beliefs with regards to the Creator, and the relationship of the created with the Creator.
2) The perfection of personal conduct and good morals.
3) The establishment of a set of laws and code of conduct to govern individual and familial relations.
4) The establishment of laws governing societal and political dealings between communities and nations.
5) The narrations of the history of the previous nations, so that the pious among them may be followed, and the impious to act as a warning.
6) To give the good news of Paradise and the blessings in store for the believers, and the evil tidings of the punishment of Hell in store for the disbelievers.
7) To prove the truthfulness of the Prophet (SAW), and this is done by explaining the miraculous nature of the Qur'aan (i'jaaz).
Therefore, the job of a Mufassir is to explain all of the above points to mankind. From the above discussion, the importance of Tafseer should become apparent. The science of Tafseer is meant to explain to mankind the Book that has been revealed to them from Allaah. The Qur'aan is like a treasure trapped in a glass receptacle; mankind can view and benefit from this treasure, but they are in need of Tafseer, for Tafseer acts like the key that unlocks the treasure, so that mankind can benefit from it to the greatest possible extent. Iyaas ibn Mu'aawiyah (d. 122 A.H.) said,
"The example of a people who recite the Qur'aan and do not know its explanation is like a group of people who have a written message from their king that comes to them during the night, and they do not have a lamp. Therefore, they do not know what is in the message. The example of one who knows Tafseer is like a person who comes to them with a lamp and reads to them what is in the message." [6]
And the Successor Sa'eed ibn Jubayr (d. 95 A.H.) said,
"Whoever recites the Qur'aan and does not explain it, is like an ignorant person."
As-Suyootee said,
(The science of Tafseer) is the most honourable of all sciences for three reasons.
The first reason is with respect to its topic. It deals with the Speech of Allaah, which contains every kind of wisdom and virtue. It contains pronouncements about what has passed, reports of what will happen and judgements concerning what happens between the people. Its wonders never cease.
The second reason is with respect to its goal. Its goal is to lead mankind to the firm handhold of Allaah, and to the true happiness, one that does not end.
The third reason is with respect to the great need for this science. Every aspect of this religion and this world, in the near or distant future, is in need of the sciences of the Sharee'ah and knowledge of the religion, and this knowledge can only be obtained through the understanding of the Book of Allaah. [7]
Apart from these reasons, the Qur'aan itself commands its readers to ponder over it, and to reflect upon its meanings, for it says,
"(This is) a Book which We have sent down to you, full of blessings, so that they may ponder over its verses, and that men of understanding may remember) [38:29]
__________________
Source: Extracted from "The Sciences of the Qur'aan" published by Al Hidaayah.
It is the science of Tafseer which is the fruit of 'pondering over its verses.'
1. az-Zarkashee, v. 2, p. 147.
2. as-Suyootee, v. 2, p. 223.
3. cf, as-Suyootee, v.2, pps. 221-2, ar-Roomee, pps. 8-9, Zarabozo, p. 14.
4. as-Suyootee, v.2, p. 223.
5. cf. Ik, pps. 64-66.
6. Both quotes taken from Zarabozo, ibid., p. 12.
7. as-Suyootee, v. 2, p. 224; c£ Zarabozo, p. 12.
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Subcategories
Family
Domestic Violence
A husband disciplining his wife according to Islamic ettiquette, governing himself by specific and strict refined regulations of Islamic Law, is only for a wives who are recalcitrant and have evil and unjustified conduct towards their husbands. This disciplinary action must be done by one who fears Allah and wishes to keep marital matters private; in no way does Islaam sanction domestic violence. Sisters should also fear Allah and maturely deal with and change any recalcitrance and refractoriness on their part.
There is a huge difference between this disciplinary measure and abuse perpetrated by unrefined, ignorant and hot-headed individuals. Abuse must stop and the appropriate measures to prevent it must be taken. It is noteworthy to mention that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) never beat any of his wives. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “From among the believers are those who have the kindest disposition and are the kindest to their families- such are those who show the most perfect faith. The best among them are those who are kindest to their wives.” [Bukhaari and Muslim]
Islamic Sciences
Knowledge
“It is only those who have knowledge among Allah's servants who fear Him.” [Qu'aan, Sûrah Fâtir, verse 28]
Recipes
Main Dishes
Dear Sisters, the main dish is the main event of any meal, so you’ve got to make it good. And no matter what your tastes run to, or how experienced you are as a chef you’ll find something in these recipes that will tempt your taste-buds.
From dishes like a simple butter chicken or a ten minute curry to more elaborate ones like vegetable lasagne and spaghetti carbonarra. We’ve got all sorts covered:
Courses
Students are requested to attend classes regularly, and to be punctual to the best of their ability. This link contains some some beneficial articles on seeking knowledge and the ettiquettes pertaining to it. Please bring the print-outs as advised, extra paper, a folder, pen/pencil and all necessary stationary and/or additional requirements. You may also want to invest in a small folding table to bring to the classes, especially those of you who find it hard to take notes whilst sitting on the floor.
The Seerah, the Noble Life of the Prophet
The books we will be covering during this course are quite popular and can be purchased from any good Islamic bookstore. Alternatively, you can order it via a reputable Islamic website.
The Noble Life of the Prophet
The following is description of the book's contents by the publishers:
In this book, the events of the Prophet's life, from the day he (p) was born and even before that day for background information-until the day he (p) died, have been recorded.
Beyond enumerating the events of the Prophet's life, lessons and morals from those events have been drawn to point out the significance of an event and the wisdom behind the Prophet's actions or deeds, the Islamic ruling that is derived from a particular incident, and the impact that a given event should have on our character or choice of deeds is indicated.
Tajweed (The Correct Recitation of the Qur'aan)
The Importance of Tajweed
Ibn al-Jazaree says in his poem about acquiring Tajweed:
And there is no obstacle between it (learning Tajweed) and leaving it,Except that a person must exercise his mouth with it!
Introduction to the 10 Recitations + 7 Ahruf
Qira'at refers to the various manners of reciting the Qur'an. There are 10 authentic Qira'at. For a qira'at to be authentic there are very detailed rules. Whereas the Qur'an was revealed in seven ahruf, as is proved in many mutawaatir ahadith. This was because different tribes pronounced and spelled words differently.
Videos/ Audios
This section contains recommended audio/ video recordings for Qur'aan recitation in addition to Tajweed lessons.
Hadeeth (Prophetic Narrations)
Shamaail At-Tirmidhi
Shamaail Al Tirmidhi is a classical book containing narrations pertaining to the noble character and virtues of the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) and infact is an indispensable collection of Hadeeth related to the Prophet’s (sallallahu a'lyhi wa sallam) blessed Seerah (biography).
It was compiled by the eminent Muhaddith, Imam al-Tirmidhi less than 3 centuries after the passing away of the Prophet Muhammed (salalahu alayhi wa salam).
The 40 Hadeeth of Imaam an-Nawawi
Many scholars of Islam have indulged in uncountable attempts throughout history to collect hadiths on various religious issues. The most famous collection of 40 hadiths of all time is the one collected by Imam Abu Zakariyyah Muhyuddeen Yahya ibn Sharaf An-Nawawi who died in AH 676. The collection is known as Al-Arba`ain An-Nawawiah or An-Nawawi's 40 Hadiths.
These selected forty hadiths comprise the main essential and fundamental concepts of Islam which, in turn, construct the minimum level of required revealed knowledge for every single Muslim.Various principles are contained in these hadiths, such as belief, Muslim ethics and fiqh. The collection of Forty Hadith by Imam Nawawi has been known, accepted and appreciated by Muslim scholars for the last seven centuries.
Umdatul-Ahkaam Fee Kalaam Khayril Annaam
Umdatul-Ahkaam by Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee (d.600 A.H.) is a famous text that contains hadith pertaining to juristic rulings (ahkaam) from Bukhari & Muslim. Like Bulugh al Maram Ibn Hajar, the author leaves out the chains of narration and suffices with the name of the Sahabi.
There are very few hadeeths in this book which are only reported by Imaam Bukhaaree or only by Imaam Muslim. Therefore, all the hadeeths of “Umdatul-Ahkaam” are authentic hadeeths. It is divided into books and chapters of fiqh.
Qur'anic Arabic
Importance of Learning Arabic
It is reported that ‘Umar ibn Yazeed wrote to Abu Moosa al-Ash’ari (may Allaah be pleased with him) and said:
‘Learn the Sunnah and learn Arabic; learn the Qur’aan in Arabic for it is Arabic.’ [Iqtidaa’ al-Siraat al-Mustaqeem, 2/207]
Madinah Book 1 - Videos By Maysoor
The Arabic Course for English-Speaking Students is a comprehensive and popular course for the teaching of the Qur'anic and Traditional Arabic, originally devised and taught at the renowned Madinah Islamic University, catering for the non-Arabic speaking students from all over the world. Over the years, this course has enabled students to become competent in their use of the Arabic language and to participate and benefit from scholarly pursuits such as Qur'anic Exegeses, Hadith, Fiqh, Sirah, History, and Classical and Modern Arabic Literature. It is concise (consisting of only three books, reasonably short) but extensive in their coverage. It combines modern Arabic vocabulary with Islamic terminology used in the Qur'an and Sunnah. It Helps acquire an understanding of hundreds of Qur'anic verses, aHadith, Arabic parables and poetry.
Madinah Book 1 - Videos By LQToronto
The Arabic Course for English-Speaking Students is a comprehensive and popular course for the teaching of the Qur'anic and Traditional Arabic, originally devised and taught at the renowned Madinah Islamic University, catering for the non-Arabic speaking students from all over the world. Over the years, this course has enabled students to become competent in their use of the Arabic language and to participate and benefit from scholarly pursuits such as Qur'anic Exegeses, Hadith, Fiqh, Sirah, History, and Classical and Modern Arabic Literature. It is concise (consisting of only three books, reasonably short) but extensive in their coverage. It combines modern Arabic vocabulary with Islamic terminology used in the Qur'an and Sunnah. It Helps acquire an understanding of hundreds of Qur'anic verses, aHadith, Arabic parables and poetry.
Madinah Book 2- Videos By LQToronto
The Arabic Course for English-Speaking Students is a comprehensive and popular course for the teaching of the Qur'anic and Traditional Arabic, originally devised and taught at the renowned Madinah Islamic University, catering for the non-Arabic speaking students from all over the world. Over the years, this course has enabled students to become competent in their use of the Arabic language and to participate and benefit from scholarly pursuits such as Qur'anic Exegeses, Hadith, Fiqh, Sirah, History, and Classical and Modern Arabic Literature. It is concise (consisting of only three books, reasonably short) but extensive in their coverage. It combines modern Arabic vocabulary with Islamic terminology used in the Qur'an and Sunnah. It Helps acquire an understanding of hundreds of Qur'anic verses, aHadith, Arabic parables and poetry.
Madinah Book 3 - Videos By LQToronto
The Arabic Course for English-Speaking Students is a comprehensive and popular course for the teaching of the Qur'anic and Traditional Arabic, originally devised and taught at the renowned Madinah Islamic University, catering for the non-Arabic speaking students from all over the world. Over the years, this course has enabled students to become competent in their use of the Arabic language and to participate and benefit from scholarly pursuits such as Qur'anic Exegeses, Hadith, Fiqh, Sirah, History, and Classical and Modern Arabic Literature. It is concise (consisting of only three books, reasonably short) but extensive in their coverage. It combines modern Arabic vocabulary with Islamic terminology used in the Qur'an and Sunnah. It Helps acquire an understanding of hundreds of Qur'anic verses, aHadith, Arabic parables and poetry.
Al-Aajurroomiyyah
Al Aajaroomiyyah, is the quintessence of Arabic grammar, its status is largely unchallenged as an excellent introduction to this first field of learning, which every scholar must master before delving into other Arabic literature. Hence, we find much attention has been paid to it amongst Arab scholars over a considerable period of time. Up untill now, this text is taught across the world in traditional institutions and is recognised as a key stepping stone to studying detailed grammar.
This course is not designed for complete beginners, but for students who have already studied the basics and are ready to tackle grammer in intensive way. It is hoped by the end of the course that the student will be able to understand the basics of grammar and thus be able to deal with more advanced texts in grammar and literature.
Laamiyatul Af'aal
The Laamiyyah is a famous primer classical text on sarf by the famous Jamaal ad-Deen Ibn Maalik (rahimahullah).
Seerah, the Life of the Prophet Muhammad
Life of the Prophet (P)
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In the Arabic language the word 
Da
Da'wah to Muslims
The Prophet (salAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said,
"Allaah, His angels, and the inhabitants of heaven and earth, even the ant in its hole and even the fish, send blessings (pray for good) upon the one who teaches the people good." (At-Tirmidhi, Saheeh)
Women's Rights in Islaam
The Muslim woman has been bestowed with many rights by Allaah Almighty, and it is of great importance in Da'wah that she - the Muslim woman - familiarises herself with the rights that Islaam has blessed her with. Not only will she, herself, then appreciate Islaam more, but in the eyes of those people who think she is 'oppressed' and without rights, she will be able to effectively prove their views wrong. So much so that many of their women, when realising the rights Islaam has given the Muslim woman, will feel envious of her dignified position in Islaam.
Polygyny/ Polygamy
"If you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphans, marry women of your choice, two or three or four. But if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with them, then only one." (Qur'aan, [4]:3)
The Seerah, the Noble Life of the Prophet
The books we will be covering for this course are popular and can be purchased from any good Islamic bookstore. Alternatively, you can order it via a reputable Islamic website.
The Noble Life of the Prophet
The following is description of the book's contents by the publishers:
In this book, the events of the Prophet's life, from the day he (p) was born and even before that day for background information-until the day he (p) died have been recorded.
Beyond enumerating the events of the Prophet's life, lessons and morals from those events have been drawn to point out the significance of an event and the wisdom behind the Prophet's actions or deeds, the Islamic ruling that is derived from a particular incident, and the impact that a given event should have on our character or choice of deeds is indicated.
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