Tafsir, the detailed interpretation of the Quran, deepens our understanding of Allah’s words. Two main types include Tafsir Bil Riwaya, relying on transmitted sources like the Quran, Sunnah, and Companions’ insights, and Tafsir Bil Ra’y, based on scholarly reasoning and ijtihad. Both methods enrich comprehension, helping Muslims apply the Quran’s guidance in their lives.
If you are not an Arab, you might have come across situations where you wanted to know the types of Tafsir with examples and understand the meaning of the verses you were reciting but could not do that because of the language barrier. In this article, we will walk you through the types of Tafsir with examples in detail. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What Is Tafsir?
Tafseer is the detailed explanation, interpretation, and commentary of the Quran. It aims to clarify the meanings of the Quranic verses, uncover their contexts, and explain their implications in light of the Arabic language, the Sunnah, and historical circumstances. Tafseer helps Muslims understand Allah’s commands, guidance, and the wisdom behind the Quranic revelations.
Types of Tafsir
If you are wondering how many types of Tafsir there are, it depends on the categorization. Here are two main types of Tafsir with detailed descriptions:
1. Tafsir Bil Riwaya
This type of Tafsir explains Quranic verses through transmitted sources, including the Quran itself, the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the interpretations of the Prophet’s Companions. For instance, certain Quranic Ayahs clarify others by addressing similar subject matter. When an unexplained statement arises, referring to other Quranic passages often provides clarity. Additionally, the Prophet’s Sunnah and the Companions’ insights further illuminate the meanings of verses.
2. Tafsir Bil Ra’y
This type of Tafsir relies on reasoning and Ijtihad (independent scholarly effort) rather than direct transmission. Scholars use comparison and contrast among Quranic verses, traditions, and the sayings of the Companions to deduce interpretations. This method is not based on random assumptions but on rigorous analysis to arrive at specific meanings.
Importance of Tafsir
Tafsir acts as a key to unlocking the treasure of the Quran, enabling deeper comprehension and practical application in daily life. Without Tafsir, understanding the Quran fully is like having a message without a lamp to read it, as described by scholars. Here are some more reasons why you should learn Tafsir of the Quran:
1. Assists Worshippers in Following the Quran
The Quran is the ultimate scripture valid until the Day of Judgment. Tafsir helps individuals comprehend the Quran more effectively. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “I leave behind me two things, the Quran and the Sunnah (Hadith), and if you follow these, you will never go astray.” Tafsir also helps Muslims understand and implement the five pillars of Islam with devotion and balance.
2. Allows You to Perform Salah with Focus and Humility
Tafsir enables individuals to understand the meanings of the verses recited in Salah, preventing distractions and enhancing concentration. By learning Tafsir, one can develop a deeper bond with the Creator and perform Salah with greater sincerity.
3. Discover the History of Islam
The Quran contains stories of past Prophets, miracles, and the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Tafsir explains these stories and the lessons they teach, offering a deeper understanding of Islamic history.
4. Builds an Everlasting Relationship with Our Creator
Tafsir deepens a believer’s bond with Allah, allowing them to interpret His closeness correctly. This understanding strengthens faith, keeping individuals on the righteous path and fostering a lifelong connection with the Creator.
5. Describes the Actual Meaning of the Quran
Simply reading the Quran does not fulfill its rights without understanding the purpose behind the words. Tafsir allows individuals to uncover the Quran’s true meanings, enabling them to apply its guidance in life.
6. Perfects the Character
The Quran guides believers toward Jannah and resolves worldly issues. While reading the Quran is vital, learning Tafsir helps internalize its teachings and implement them, perfecting one’s character and conduct.
Different Types of Tafsir Books
To explain the types of Tafsir with examples clearly to you, we have listed the types of Tafsir with examples of prominent books for you below:
1. Books Tafsir Bil Riwaya
In this type of Tafsir, the Quran is explained through three primary sources. First, it is interpreted by the Quran itself, where one verse clarifies the meaning of another. Second, it is explained through the Sunnah, using the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad to provide context and understanding. Third, it is understood through the statements of the Sahaba, the companions of the Prophet, who possessed firsthand knowledge of the Quran’s revelation and its intended meanings.
- Jami’ Al-Bayan by Al-Tabari
- Tafsir Al-Qur’an Al-Azim by Ibn Kathir
- Ma’alim Al-Tanzil by Al-Baghawi
- Al-Muharrar Al-Wajiz by Ibn Atiyah
- Al-Durr Al-Manthur by Al-Suyuti
2. Books of Tafsir Bil Ray
Tafsir bil Ra’y cannot be praise-worthy without considering and tuning into Tafsir bil Riwaya, for it should combine opinions with reports, and intellect with transmitted knowledge. Thus, the Tafsir bil Riwaya does not differ in such a way that it opposes or conflicts with it.
- Mafatih Al-Ghayb by Al-Razi
- Anwar Al-Tanzil by Al-Baydawi
- Madarik Al-Tanzil by Al-Nasafi
- Ruh Al-Ma’ani by Al-Alusi
What Is the Best Tafseer of the Quran?
Now, you might be wondering, “What is the best Tafsir of the Quran?” The answer is that there is no single Tafsir that is the best for everyone. The best Tafsir is the one that most closely aligns with your purpose or objective. So it’s essential to choose a Tafsir that best resonates with your current understanding and the challenges you face.
5 Methods of Tafseer
1. Through Quran
The Quran explains itself by referencing related verses, where one verse provides clarity for another on similar topics or concepts. This method is the most authentic, as Allah knows best what He means.
2. Through Sunnah
The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) sayings and actions explain Quranic verses. For instance, Al-Baqarah: 187 mentions “white thread and black thread,” which the Prophet clarified as the distinction between night and day. The Sunnah is a key source for understanding the Quran.
3. Through Aathaar
The sayings of the Prophet’s Companions (RAA) are valuable, as they had a deep knowledge of the Quran’s revelation and context. When neither the Quran nor the Sunnah clarified a verse, the Companions used their understanding to interpret it.
4. Through Language
Understanding the Quran through Arabic grammar and vocabulary is crucial but requires expertise. Language evolution led to varying interpretations, as seen in the term lams in An-Nisa: 43, which has been understood differently by scholars like Imam Al-Shaafi’ee and Imam Abu Hanifa.
5. Through Opinion
Logical interpretation is acceptable if it aligns with the first four methods. Personal opinions contradicting these are prohibited. The Prophet (PBUH) warned against interpreting the Quran solely based on personal reasoning.
What Is the Difference between Tafsir and Taweel?
‘Ta’wil is derived from the root ‘Awwl’ which means ‘to return, to return to,’ suggesting returning to the origins of a word to understand its meanings and connotations. Here are the common differences between Tafsir and Taweel:
1. Meaning
- Tafsir: Used to explain a word with only one meaning.
- Ta’wil: Used to determine one of the meanings attached to a word.
2. Interpretation Basis
- Tafsir: Classified by Al-Maturidi as interpretations based on knowledge.
- Ta’wil: Considered interpretations based on reason (Ijtihad).
3. Literal vs. Intent
- Tafsir: Represents the literal meaning of a verse.
- Ta’wil: Represents the actual intent of a verse.
4. Application
- Tafsir: Explains the meaning of the individual words in a verse.
- Ta’wil: Explains what the verse is trying to convey.
Start Learning Tafsir Online Now!
Having covered the types of Tafsir with examples, we have now come to the end of our article. As we sign off, we would like to emphasize once again that Tafsir is intended to help Muslims better understand and obey the message and commands of Allah.
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Conclusion
Tafsir plays an essential role in deepening our understanding of the Quran, bridging the gap between recitation and comprehension. Whether through Tafsir Bil Riwaya or Tafsir Bil Ra’y, these methods and approaches shed light on the divine message, helping Muslims connect with the Quran on a personal and spiritual level.
By understanding the context, history, and meanings behind the verses, Tafsir serves as a guide for applying Quranic teachings in daily life, enabling Muslims to grow in faith and character.If you are eager to unlock the treasures of the Quran, learning Tafsir is the perfect way to begin. It not only helps you understand the words of Allah but also enhances your worship, strengthens your connection with the Creator, and provides solutions to life’s challenges.
