The Commentary On The Quran Vol. 2 By Al-tabari
To understand the text, one must first understand the titan who penned it. Abu Ja'far Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari (839–923 CE / 224–310 AH) was a Persian polymath from Amol, Tabaristan (modern-day Iran). He was not just a mufassir (exegete); he was a historian, a jurist, and a hadith scholar of the highest order.
The second volume of Al-Tabari's Commentary on the Quran (often titled
The volume also addresses the narratives of the Prophets and the "Children of Israel." Al-Tabari includes many Isra'iliyyat (narrations originating from Jewish or Christian traditions) within his commentary. While later critics would sometimes exclude such material, Al-Tabari’s inclusion in Volume 2 serves a historical function. It shows the porous nature of religious storytelling in the medieval period and how early Muslims understood the Quranic references to biblical figures like Moses and Abraham. By keeping these narrations, Al-Tabari provides modern historians with an invaluable resource for understanding the interreligious dialogue (or lack thereof) of his era. The Commentary On The Quran Vol. 2 By Al-tabari
Initial regulations guiding property distribution before the later, more detailed revelation of Surah an-Nisa . Spiritual Disciplines: Fasting and Warfare
Al-Tabari did not merely offer his own opinion. Instead, he compiled and curated thousands of reports, sayings, and stories attributed to the Prophet Muhammad, his companions (Sahaba), and the following generation (Tabi'un). To understand the text, one must first understand
Because Volume 2 deals heavily with the history of Biblical figures, Al-Tabari incorporates Isra'iliyyat —traditions derived from Jewish and Christian sources to fill in historical details not explicitly detailed in the Quranic text. However, Al-Tabari remains uniquely critical, adopting a academic distance and framing these stories strictly through the lens of Islamic theology. Literary Legacy and Academic Availability
The English-speaking world has long awaited access to this foundational text. The publication of The Commentary on the Quran Vol. 2 By Al-Tabari , specifically the second volume of the abridged English translation titled Selections from the Comprehensive Exposition of the Interpretation of the Verses of the Qur'an , marks a significant milestone. This article delves into the profound legacy of Al-Tabari, examines the unique features of Volume 2 of this landmark translation, and explores why this work remains an indispensable resource for understanding the Quran today. The second volume of Al-Tabari's Commentary on the
The volume often details the narratives of the prophets, focusing on lessons regarding patience, faith, and adherence to divine law. Al-Tabari brings together disparate accounts to provide a comprehensive narrative. C. The Nature of Guidance and Misguidance
Al-Tabari uses Volume 2 to provide deep historical context regarding the Prophet Moses.