Understanding Tafseer and Knowledge in Islam

Aug 25, 2024

Lecture: Muqaddimat al-Tafseer by Sheikh Khalil

Opening Remarks

  • Praise to Allah and His Messenger.
  • Introduction to Muqaddimat al-Tafseer by Sheikh Abdul Rahman ibn Qasim.
  • Explanation by Sheikh Muhammad Hisham.
  • Book translated by brothers, not available in English.

Hadith on the World

  • The world is accursed except for the remembrance of Allah, Alim (scholar), and Mutalim (learner).
  • Explanation by Imam Ibn Baz on 'accursed'.

Importance of Seeking Knowledge

  • Students should pray to avoid distractions.
  • Hadith: Angels lower wings for students of knowledge.
  • Allah said: "Only the knowledgeable truly fear Allah."

Tafseer of the Qur'an

  • Explanation and meaning based on principles and reasons of revelation.
  • Fundamental principles (Usul) of Tafseer are half the knowledge needed.
  • Notable works by Ibn Jarir Al-Tabari and Sheikh Al-Islam ibn Taymiyyah.

Seeking Knowledge and Its Etiquette

  • Importance of the path of knowledge in etiquette, action, patience.
  • The story of Sheikh Abu Zakariya and the lack of Tafseer lessons.

Revelation of the Qur'an

  • Qur'an is the literal speech of Allah, uncreated, heard by Jibreel directly.
  • Consensus among Salaf that Qur'an is uncreated.

Attributes of the Qur'an

  • Qur'an is both letters and meanings, not just one.
  • Refutations of various sects (Mu'tazila, Jahmiyyah, Ash'ariyyah, etc.) and their views on the Qur'an.
  • Speech of Allah is an attribute of Allah, like His knowledge.

Key Concepts and Terms

  • 'Khashyah': Fear based on knowledge.
  • La ilaha illallah: Negation and affirmation.
  • Conditions and pillars of La ilaha illallah.

Misinterpretations and Clarifications

  • Clarification on terms like "Holy Spirit" and "Intelligent Designer".
  • Misinterpretation warnings in English Dawah.

Closing Remarks

  • Emphasis on the value of knowledge and the importance of proper understanding of the Qur'an and its Tafseer.
  • Encouragement to focus on knowledge and avoid unnecessary fitnah (trials) or disputes among scholars.

The lecture provides a comprehensive understanding of the objectives and methodologies of Tafseer, emphasizing the significance of knowledge in Islam and the correct interpretation of the Qur'an's divine nature.