## Majma' al-Bayan li 'Ulum al-Qur'an: An Extensive Synopsis
**Majma' al-Bayan li 'Ulum al-Qur'an** (مجمع البيان لعلوم القرآن), penned by the esteemed scholar Radi ad-Din Abu Ali al-Faḍl ibn al-Ḥusayn al-Ṭabarsī, stands as a monumental work in the realm of Quranic exegesis (Tafsir).
True to its name, which translates to "A Collection of Elucidations on the Sciences of the Quran," this masterpiece serves as a comprehensive repository of knowledge pertaining to the Holy Quran. Within its pages, al-Tabarsi meticulously analyzes the verses, delving into their linguistic nuances, grammatical intricacies, and diverse interpretations. He masterfully weaves together insights from earlier commentators, presenting a balanced and insightful understanding of the Quranic text.
**Key Features of Majma' al-Bayan:**
* **Comprehensive Commentary:** The book provides a verse-by-verse analysis of the Quran, offering a holistic understanding of its message and teachings.
* **Linguistic Depth:** Al-Tabarsi's expertise in Arabic grammar and linguistics shines through as he dissects the vocabulary and structure of the verses, unraveling layers of meaning.
* **Multiple Interpretations:** Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of the Quran, the author presents various interpretations of the verses, citing prominent scholars and schools of thought.
* **Historical Context:** Al-Tabarsi grounds his explanations within the historical context of the verses' revelation, shedding light on their relevance to the time period and the Prophet Muhammad's life.
* **Focus on 'Ulum al-Qur'an:** Beyond mere interpretation, the book delves into the broader sciences of the Quran ('Ulum al-Qur'an), exploring topics like the reasons for revelation (Asbab al-Nuzul) and the abrogation of verses (Naskh).
**Target Audience:**
Majma' al-Bayan caters to a wide readership, including:
* **Students of Islamic Studies:** Serving as an invaluable resource for understanding the Quran and its sciences.
* **Scholars and Researchers:** Offering profound insights and meticulous analysis for academic exploration.
* **General Muslims:** Providing accessible explanations to deepen their comprehension and appreciation of the Quran.
**Legacy and Impact:**
This magnum opus has enjoyed widespread acclaim throughout history and continues to be revered as a cornerstone of Quranic exegesis. Its influence on subsequent generations of scholars is undeniable, solidifying al-Tabarsi's legacy as a towering figure in Islamic scholarship.
## FAQs about Majma' al-Bayan:
**1. What is the main focus of Majma' al-Bayan?**
This book focuses on providing a comprehensive explanation and analysis of the Quran, encompassing linguistic nuances, diverse interpretations, historical context, and broader Quranic sciences.
**2. Who is the intended audience for this book?**
It caters to students of Islamic studies, scholars, researchers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Quran.
**3. What makes Majma' al-Bayan a significant work?**
Its comprehensiveness, linguistic depth, presentation of multiple interpretations, historical grounding, and focus on 'Ulum al-Qur'an make it a cornerstone of Quranic exegesis.
**4. What is the author's approach to interpreting the Quran?**
Al-Tabarsi combines a meticulous analysis of the text with a balanced presentation of various scholarly interpretations, offering a holistic understanding of the verses.
**5. Is Majma' al-Bayan suitable for someone new to Islamic studies?**
While highly beneficial for those with a foundational understanding of Islam and the Arabic language, its complex subject matter might pose challenges for complete beginners. However, with guidance and supplementary resources, it can still be a valuable learning tool.
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