AL imam al Nisaburi and his attention to variant readings in his exegesis

Abstract

This study focuses on Imam al-Nisaburi and his attention to variant readings in his commentary entitled "Ghara'ib al-Qur'an wa Ragha'ib al-Furqan" (The Wonders of the Qur'an and the Desires of the Criterion). We will demonstrate that Imam al-Nisaburi is a prominent figure in the fields of Qur'anic exegesis and variant readings. He possessed a comprehensive scholarly personality, encompassing various disciplines that serve the Holy Qur'an. This is clearly evident in his book on Qur'anic exegesis, whose title reflects its significance. He explained the rare and unusual aspects of the Qur'an and sought to clarify the Criterion, employing a style that combined the scholarship of al-Zamakhshari and al-Razi in their respective works, "al-Kashshaf" and "Mafatih al-Ghayb." The book incorporates the most valuable insights from these two works and adds to them. Furthermore, al-Nisaburi's approach was free from bias towards any particular school of thought or sect, unlike al-Zamakhshari's adherence to the Mu'tazilite school. The book also highlighted another crucial aspect: the science of Quranic readings. In this area, al-Nisaburi's scholarly and intellectual acumen shone through, demonstrating his profound understanding and mastery of this field. This understanding is evident in his presentation of the readings, particularly in his insightful introductions where he discusses the science of Quranic readings, its principles, its purpose, the seven canonical reciters and their chains of transmission, and related topics.