Exegesis Methodology of Allama Abu Bakr Jaber al-Jazairi in “Aysar-ul-Tafasir likalam-il- Ali-al-Kabir”.

Abstract

Allama Jazairi’s exegetical approach in “Aysar al-Tafasir” beautifully and comprehensively represents a synthesis of transmitted and rational sciences, classical and modern perspectives, as well as theoretical and practical disciplines. He focused intently on the Quranic text, avoided innovations, and elucidated the divine intent with remarkable clarity and depth by grounding his interpretation in the understanding of the Companions and the righteous predecessors. He prioritized Quranic verses and the Prophetic traditions, giving precedence to the opinions of the Companions, Tabiʿin, and renowned scholars over personal views. Contextually, he drew valuable insights from classical and later scholars—including exegetes, hadith experts, jurists, and Sufis—incorporating their contributions seamlessly.

Recognizing the pivotal role of literary, lexical, and rhetorical analyses in refining the Quran’s meanings, he treated these disciplines as indispensable tools. Lexicology aided in morphological precision and syntactical coherence, while literary devices such as stylistic refinement, metaphors, proverbs, and allegories highlighted the Quran’s linguistic brilliance and communicative nuances. Rhetoric further clarified complex meanings, affirmed divine intent, and emphasized emphatic, cautionary, affirmative, and exceptional dimensions of the text. 

Allama Jazairi did not neglect the poetic genre; rather, he adeptly employed Arabic poetry as authoritative evidence to present a holistic and lucid exposition of Quranic concepts. He cited hundreds of verses from dozens of poets to:  Establish lexical, preferred, and technical meanings and Determine contextual implications and rare usages, Resolve ambiguities and refine pronunciation, Validate syntactic rules and the seven canonical recitations, demonstrate the Quran’s practical application and unmatched eloquence, Critique poets who rivaled the Quran’s linguistic excellence. 

Through these methods, his tafsir stands as a testament to the Quran’s linguistic perfection and exegetical depth.