The Commentary On The Quran Vol. 2 By Al-tabari Direct

Unlike Cooper's projected complete translation, Lucas's work is a selection, focusing on 32 specific passages from al-Ṭabarī's commentary. These selections are intentionally chosen for their spiritual significance, theological importance, or narrative interest, and they cover a wide range of surahs (chapters) from across the Qur'an. The work includes al-Ṭabarī's crucial methodological introduction, which Cooper's translation had abridged, and provides full, rather than shortened, translations of the selected passages. This approach offers a deeper and more accurate illustration of al-Ṭabarī's hermeneutical method. To enhance its scholarly value, Lucas also includes detailed indices and several appendices, such as a list of al-Ṭabarī's teachers and the exegetical authorities he cites.

What makes Volume 2 highly readable and intellectually stimulating is that al-Tabari does not just list conflicting opinions; he acts as a judge. After presenting various interpretations of a verse, he uses the formula, "The most correct opinion concerning this matter in our view is..." He then justifies his choice using linguistic evidence, historical consensus ( ijma ), or theological consistency. Key Themes Covered in Volume 2 The Commentary On The Quran Vol. 2 By Al-tabari

Every interpretation begins with a chain of narrators ( isnad ) tracing back to the Prophet Muhammad, his companions ( Sahabah ), or the subsequent generation of scholars ( Tabi'un ). This approach offers a deeper and more accurate