A Methodological Study of "Al-Itqan fi ‘Ulum al-Qur’an" by Imam Al-Suyuti

الاتقان فی علوم القرآن از امام سیوطی کا منہجی مطالعہ

Abstract

            This text underscores the Holy Qur’an as a foundational and unparalleled source for all sciences and intellectual pursuits throughout history. It elaborates on the multifaceted nature of the Qur’an, highlighting that its guidance extends far beyond spiritual and ethical matters to encompass a wide array of principles related to human existence, the natural world, social systems, law, economics, and the cosmos. These divine principles have served as a catalyst for the development of numerous distinct academic disciplines, each evolving into a specialized field of study with its own methodologies and experts. Among these diverse fields, ‘Uloom al-Qur’an - commonly known as the Sciences of the Qur’an -holds a particularly significant place. This discipline involves a comprehensive and systematic study of various fundamental aspects of the Qur’an, including the circumstances of its revelation (asbab al-nuzul), the process of its compilation and preservation, the principles of exegesis (tafsir), the identification of abrogating and abrogated verses (naskh), the differentiation between clear (muhkam) and allegorical (mutashabih) verses, the miraculous nature of the text (i’jaz), and the study of its variant readings (qira’at). Together, these components form a robust scholarly framework that enables deeper understanding, accurate interpretation, and contextual application of the Qur’anic message. The text also draws attention to the enduring scholarly significance of the classical work "Al-Itqan fi ‘Uloom al-Qur’an", authored by the eminent scholar Imam Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti (may Allah have mercy on him). Recognized for its comprehensive coverage, methodological rigor, and scholarly depth, Al-Itqan remains a seminal and authoritative reference for students, researchers, and scholars engaged in Qur’anic studies. Its continued relevance underscores the timeless nature of Qur’anic sciences and their critical role in bridging traditional Islamic knowledge with contemporary intellectual inquiry in an analytical way of research.