The Preferred Interpretations of Muin al-Din al-Iji in His Tafsir Jami al-Bayan fi Tafsir al-Quran (Surat al-Baqarah: Verses29, and35, and128)

Abstract

Abstract:

The science of Tarjiḥat (preferential interpretations) is among the key disciplines that aid in understanding the Qur’anic text. This field held great significance for al-Ijī (may Allah have mercy on him) in his exegesis Jami al-Bayan fī Tafsir al-Quran. Al-Iji’s methodological approach to tarjiḥ relied primarily on the Qur’anic context when preferring certain interpretations. His stance toward Isra’iliyyat (narratives of Judeo-Christian origin) was characterized by caution and a firm adherence to the apparent meaning of the Qur’anic text, while supporting his views with Qur’anic verses, prophetic traditions, and statements of the Companions and the Successors. His tafsir often reflects an emphasis on the generality of Qur’anic expressions unless specific evidence restricts them.