The methodology of the Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation is distinguished by its scientific precision and unique comprehensiveness. It harmoniously combines the authenticity of heritage with the innovation of modernity, like a river drawing its waters from the springs of a rich past and flowing through the channels of a renewed present, quenching the thirst of researchers and scholars.

First: Blending Authenticity and Innovation

The methodology draws from the wellspring of original sources in tafsir and rhetoric, building bridges to modern studies, as if merging the wisdom of the elders with the enthusiasm of youth in a single vessel.

Second: Comprehensive Analysis

It encompasses all aspects of rhetoric, including meanings, eloquence, and embellishments, akin to a skilled jeweler examining a gem from every angle, highlighting its unique beauty.

Third: Linking Rhetoric to Tafsir

The methodology demonstrates how rhetorical techniques align with interpretative meanings, weaving a fabric of golden threads that amazes observers with its harmony and brilliance.

Fourth: A Gradual Analytical Approach

It begins with the word, progresses to the sentence, then to the ayah, and finally to the Surah—like climbing a towering mountain step by step until reaching the summit, enjoying every stage of the ascension.

Fifth: Comparison and Balancing

It compares various rhetorical techniques and weighs them with precision, like a discerning critic distinguishing between degrees of beauty, revealing subtle differences and hidden meanings.

Sixth: Precise Scientific Documentation

Every statement is attributed to its source, every opinion to its proponent, as if returning trusts to their rightful owners, achieving the highest degrees of scientific honesty and objectivity.

Detailed Methodological Steps

  1. Connections Between Ayahs and Surahs:
  • Clarifying the link between the surah and its predecessor in the Quranic arrangement.
  • Highlighting the coherence between ayahs without force.
  • Elucidating the relationships among consecutive, harmonious, and similar words.
  1. Explanation of Words:
  • Providing an accurate and concise linguistic interpretation of the words in an ayah.
  • Listing words in the order of their occurrence in the ayah.
  • Connecting each word to its root and clarifying the overall meaning of the root.
  • Highlighting the contextual meaning of Quranic words within the ayah.
  1. General Meaning of the Ayahs:
  • Presenting a comprehensive interpretation of the ayahs under study.
  • Using simple and clear language while maintaining eloquence.
  • Identifying the topic addressed by the ayah.
  • Explaining the general significance and guidance provided by the ayah.
  1. Linguistic and Rhetorical Elucidation:
  • Highlighting rhetorical aspects of the ayahs in the order of their occurrence.
  • Exploring the precise implications and connotations of connecting particles.
  • Discussing grammatical and morphological topics, focusing on their significance.
  • Demonstrating how linguistic styles influence meanings.
  • Employing aspects of rhetoric to reveal the types of metaphors and the beauty of similes.
  • Studying the composition of ayahs, emphasizing cohesion, structure, and style.
  1. Lexical Differences:
  • Clarifying lexical differences between prominent words in the ayahs and comparing them with their equivalents.
  • Demonstrating that every word has a distinct meaning different from its equivalent.

With this distinctive methodology, the encyclopedia provides a model to mimic in Quranic studies, combining depth of analysis, precision of methodology, and comprehensiveness of vision. It is like a lighthouse guiding researchers, opening new horizons in understanding the rhetorical miracles of the Quran, and inspiring future generations to continue exploring the treasures of the Holy Book.

Critical Reading

The Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation shines like a precious jewel in the crown of Quranic studies, distinguished by numerous features that make it a beacon for researchers and scholars. It embodies comprehensiveness and integration, like a vast ocean embracing all tributaries of Quranic rhetoric and immersing readers in waves of abundant knowledge.

The encyclopedia excels in scientific precision, analyzing every letter and word with meticulous care, revealing the hidden gems of meanings embedded in the Quranic text. Among its most notable strengths is the unique fusion of traditional sources with modern perspectives. It is like a sturdy tree, its roots deeply entrenched in the soil of cultural heritage, and its branches reaching the skies of modernity, offering ripe fruits of knowledge.

Its strength lies in its clear methodology and logical progression of ideas, guiding readers on an organized intellectual journey through the gardens of Quranic rhetoric. It opens doors to deeper understanding and appreciation, particularly in linking theory with practice and contextualizing the Quranic text within its broader framework. The encyclopedia invites new perspectives on the rhetorical inimitability of the Quran, revealing treasures of knowledge that have remained hidden for centuries.

However, perfection belongs only to Allah. Such a monumental work may have some areas of deficiency, such as variability in the level of analysis among researchers or occasional repetition in some sections. Non-specialists might also find difficulty grasping some of the more intricate analyses, akin to attempting to explore the depths of an ocean without the proper diving equipment.

Yet, these minor shortcomings do not detract from the value of this monumental work. Instead, they pave the way for improvement and refinement in future editions. Perhaps the authors could consider adding executive summaries to serve as roadmaps for readers on their intellectual journey. Additionally, unifying the writing style could create a more steady flow.

Including detailed indexes would serve as golden keys, enabling readers to access the encyclopedia effortlessly. Moreover, incorporating more illustrative examples could serve as stars illuminating the path for readers. Comparative studies between Quranic rhetoric and classical Arabic literature, even in footnotes, could further emphasize the Quran's miraculous nature.

Developing a digital version of the encyclopedia linked to Quranic ayahs would enable readers to navigate its knowledge like sailing a fast digital ship across an ocean of understanding. A more interactive version, possibly linked to artificial intelligence applications, could open new horizons in Quranic studies, making this encyclopedia a beacon of knowledge for future generations in understanding Allah’s Book.

A New Dawn in Quranic Knowledge

In conclusion, we stand before a unique scholarly achievement that marks a turning point in Quranic studies. It is not merely an addition to the Islamic library but a groundbreaking contribution to the fields of tafsir and rhetoric. Like a ray of light piercing through the veils of time, it illuminates new horizons in understanding Allah’s Book.

This encyclopedia proves that exploring the Quran’s miraculous nature remains an ever-fertile field, with endless possibilities for discovery. It invites us to reexamine our understanding of the Quranic text and encourages us to delve deeper into its eloquence and expression, as if opening a window to a world of meanings previously undiscovered.

This monumental work is not the endpoint but the beginning of a new era of research and contemplation in Allah’s Book. It opens wide the doors for researchers and scholars to continue the journey, uncovering more secrets of the Quranic miracle, igniting the torch of knowledge to be passed from one generation to the next.

The Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation is not just a book to be read and shelved; it is a civilizational project and a way of life. It invites us all to rediscover Allah’s Book, reflect deeply on its ayahs, and draw guidance and light for our daily lives. Like a compass guiding us through the turbulent sea of life, let it serve as a starting point for a new scientific and spiritual renaissance, restoring the Ummah’s glory and leadership in serving Allah’s Book and understanding its secrets.

Let us be certain that the journey of discovering the Quran’s miraculous nature is never-ending, and every generation is called upon to add a new brick to this great structure, as if we are collectively building a fortress of light that protects the Ummah and illuminates its future.

 

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Living with the Qur’an through recitation, contemplation, reflection, deduction, and adherence to the commands of Allah has always been the path of the devoted scholars and sincere seekers of knowledge.

By Allah’s will, I had the opportunity to explore the book “The Intermediate Tafsir of Surah An-Nisa: Reviving Human Life, Its Divine Legal Organization, and Protecting the Vulnerable, Especially Women and Children, from Oppression” by Sheikh Dr. Abdul Salam Muqbal Al-Mujidi Al-Yamani. (1) This book is part of the encyclopedia Basair Al-Ma’rifah Al-Qur’aniyyah and spans 256 pages. I found it to be distinct and innovative in its approach, with an eloquent style and profound interpretation of the ayahs of the Qur’an. The words seemed to accompany me during the reading, illuminating meanings and bringing me closer to a deep understanding of this exalted science.

 Basair Al-Ma’rifah Al-Qur’aniyyah

During my reading, I noticed that the Sheikh addressed a universal audience, reflecting the global message of the Qur’an, in a simple yet expressive language infused with high literary quality. This approach achieved its purpose, as Sheikh Al-Mujidi sought to reach the mind, stir emotions, touch the heart, and awaken the innate nature of humanity.

An expert in Qur’anic tafsir would notice how much he benefited from earlier scholars in the field, such as Al-Tabari, Ibn Kathir, Al-Qurtubi, Al-Zamakhshari, and others among the classical scholars, and from contemporary scholars like Sheikh Mutawalli Al-Sha'rawi and Sayyid Qutb. He merged their knowledge with his own insights, presenting them in artistic and literary compositions that will delight seekers of Qur’anic understanding.

To the best of my modest knowledge, the Sheikh uniquely titled his works. For instance, for Surah An-Nisa, he titled it “Reviving Human Life, Its Divine Legal Organization, and Protecting the Vulnerable, Especially Women and Children, from Oppression”. This comprehensive title adequately reflects the content of the surah and the findings of his research and study.

The Sheikh discussed the historical context of Surah An-Nisa, not as a mere narrator but as a critical scholar to those before him. He interpreted some ayahs based on the reasons for their revelation, supported by evidence from the Prophet’s Sunnah, employing the methodology of specialized scholars in this field.

He focused on rulings related to orphans, women, and inheritance, providing a schematic representation of the insights offered by Surah An-Nisa to express its comprehensive image.

The Book’s Content

The book’s introduction outlined fundamental legal principles that ensure the “revival of human life,” divided into seven key themes:

  1. The Beginning of Human Life – Children and Women
    • This section elaborated on the surah’s discourse on orphans, women’s rights, and the protection of the vulnerable in society, safeguarding them from injustice and oppression based on divine legislations found in the Qur’an.
  2. The Formation of the Central Family
    • This section delved into the laws of marriage, emphasizing the establishment of family stability and humanity’s right to security and growth. He expanded on the relevant ayahs in his extensive three-volume tafsir and condensed them into “The Intermediate Tafsir.”
  3. Fortifying Family Stability to Ensure Human Flourishment
    • Under this theme, he explained the ayahs in a unique and exceptional way, characterized by his analytical reasoning, emotional fervor, and profound discussions aimed at guiding humanity.

Reflections on the Encyclopedia and the Book

The Sheikh’s exceptional writings in “Basair Al-Ma’rifah Al-Qur’aniyyah” indicate that this eminent scholar devoted decades of his life to this grand project. Its outcomes, by Allah’s grace and favor, are now manifest: “That is the bounty of Allah; He gives to whom He wills, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.” (Al-Jumu’ah: 4)

The tafsir Basair Al-Ma’rifah Al-Qur’aniyyah, as I studied and benefited from it, is not a mere replication of Al-Tabari, Al-Razi, Al-Qurtubi, Ibn Kathir, Al-Sha’rawi, Al-Sa’di, Qutb, Al-Nabulsi, Al-Zuhaili, Al-Shanqiti, Al-Nasafi, Al-Naysaburi, or others.

It is uniquely Al-Mujidi’s work, characterized by his distinct approach, taste, and methodology. His innovative, blessed methodology reflects the spirit of our times in terms of structure, illustrations, idea distribution, lessons, and the use of expressions to convey the essence of the Qur’an’s meanings. He addresses individuals, families, societies, human rights organizations, women, judicial institutions, and humanity at large through the Qur’an’s divine discourse. He also derived numerous legal principles from the ayahs, such as:

  • The Islamic Law of Inheritance, which revolves around six objectives: human propagation, justice, mutual support, rights, duties, and aiding heirs according to current and future responsibilities. This law exemplifies true mercy to humanity, helping them achieve stability, expansion, growth, and constructive development. In his commentary on Allah’s command: “Allah instructs you concerning your children.” (An-Nisa: 11)
    He emphasized the importance of current generations caring for future ones. The term “instruction” signifies a divine mandate, reflecting the profound care and attention required for those entrusted to us. The addressed parties include parents, relatives, and governmental and non-governmental organizations.

The idea of extracting principles rooted in justice, wisdom, and benefit from Qur’anic ayahs is a brilliant one, rarely found in the tafsir works I’ve encountered, according to my humble knowledge.

 How I View the Basair Al-Ma’rifah Al-Qur’aniyyah Project

Discussing Dr. Abdul Salam Al-Mujidi Al-Yamani’s project Basair Al-Ma’rifah Al-Qur’aniyyah is extensive. In my view, this project represents one of the pillars of Islamic civilizational renaissance. It contains elements and insights capable of significantly contributing to combating the invasive ideologies targeting the Islamic Ummah’s doctrinal, ethical, and spiritual foundations, which stem from the Qur’an and the exalted status of our Prophet ﷺ and his noble companions.

In his tafsir, the author concluded Surah An-Nisa with a universal declaration of divine law, inviting all nations to adhere to it as a comprehensive methodology that combines reason and divine guidance, providing solutions to humanity’s problems. This invitation underscores the Qur’anic values as a foundational source for safeguarding humanity from going astray.

Dr. Abdul Salam Al-Mujidi Al-Yamani’s tafsir stands out for its deep analysis, clear focus on humanitarian and legislative aspects of the Surah, and its endeavor to highlight how the surah establishes principles of social justice, protects vulnerable groups like orphans and women and entails the intricate social and economic relationships, aiming at enhancing familial and societal cohesion.

In conclusion, I can only praise the blessed effort exerted in the interpretation of Surah “An-Nisa,” “Al-Baqarah,” “Al-A'raf,” and other books. The author presented profound insights that guide the reader towards a comprehensive understanding of Quranic concepts and human rights. Dr. Al-Mujidi here demonstrates a precise understanding of the meanings and divine purposes conveyed in these blessed surahs, as well as his diligence in explaining the divine wisdom behind Islamic legislation concerning the rights of the vulnerable, including women, children, and others.

This tafsir is not just an explanation of the ayahs; it is a presentation of the human and social dimensions built upon these ayahs, making it a distinctive reference for anyone seeking a deep understanding of the Quran. It reflects the message of Islam in justice and mercy and shows how tafsir can be a practical guide illuminating the paths of those who follow it. We ask Allah, the Exalted, by His beautiful names and attributes, and by His Greatest Name, to ease the difficulties and remove the obstacles in the path of our sheikh and teacher, Dr. Abdul Salam Al-Mujidi. May He grant him both material and spiritual strength, and provide him with those who will assist him in achieving this noble goal and lofty purpose, so that the light of this work may be fully realized, with acceptance extended across time and place until Allah inherits the earth and all that is on it. May He grant success to all those working to support the religion of Islam wherever they may be.

 

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(1) Currently serves as the professor of Islamic Sharia at Qatar University.

Read the Article in Arabic

 

 

The Importance and Objectives of the Encyclopedia

The significance of the Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation lies in its being a mighty scholarly edifice that encompasses the essence of interpretive and rhetorical thought in studying the Qur'an. It serves as a cornerstone in the structure of Islamic knowledge, highlighting the rhetorical inimitability of the Qur'an through meticulous analysis of its unique linguistic styles.

This monumental work offers a comprehensive and integrated vision of the rhetorical aspects of Allah's Book, opening new horizons for a deeper understanding of its exalted meanings. It acts as an illuminating lamp that guides researchers and scholars through the pathways of knowledge in the fields of Qur'anic exegesis and rhetoric.

With its lofty goals, the encyclopedia aspires to provide a thorough rhetorical interpretation of the Qur'an, showcasing its linguistic miracles with a rigorous scientific methodology. Like a skilled diver, it delves into the depths of the Qur'anic text, unveiling its subtle meanings by analyzing its unique rhetorical methods.

One of its primary objectives is to unify the efforts of scholars in the field of rhetorical interpretation, weaving them into a single, cohesive tapestry that enriches the Islamic library with an authentic scientific reference. In doing so, it facilitates the understanding of Qur'anic rhetoric for a wide range of readers—from the general public to specialists—throwing open the gates of knowledge for all.

Indeed, this encyclopedia, with its immense importance and noble objectives, stands as a testament to the greatness of the Qur'an and its eternal inimitability. It proudly rises as a beacon of guidance, directing researchers and scholars to the treasures of knowledge embedded within the ayahs of the Glorious Qur'an, while paving new avenues for understanding the meanings of Allah's Book and contemplating its profound messages.

 

Main Themes

The themes of the Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation sparkle like dazzling jewels in the crown of knowledge and learning. Each theme illuminates a unique facet of Qur'anic inimitability. The scientific methodology, for instance, stands firm like a towering mountain, establishing precise standards for rhetorical analysis, blending the fragrance of tradition with the spirit of innovation, and weaving a dazzling garment that unites the richness of the past with the creativity of the present.

The comprehensive rhetorical analysis offered by the encyclopedia is akin to a vast sea embracing all arts of rhetoric, including semantics, eloquence, and embellishments. It dives into the depths of the ayahs, exploring the intricacies of the surahs and linking the parts to the whole in a harmonious composition that captivates hearts and minds alike.

The encyclopedia's connection between rhetoric and meaning is like uncovering a hidden treasure. It meticulously demonstrates how rhetorical techniques contribute to conveying the subtle meanings of the ayahs, highlighting the profound relationship between rhetorical and legislative inimitability. It paints a vivid portrait of the exquisite harmony between form and meaning in the Qur'an.

The encyclopedia also achieves remarkable integration among the various sciences of the Qur'an. Like an industrious bee gathering nectar from every flower, it synthesizes knowledge into a unique intellectual honey. It draws upon and interconnects diverse disciplines, revealing the fascinating ties between rhetoric and other dimensions of Qur'anic inimitability.

Finally, the goal of simplification and accessibility crowns this magnificent work. The encyclopedia, like a pure spring, offers the nectar of knowledge to the thirsty in a simple and approachable manner, appealing to both scholars and learners. It avoids complexity and obscurity, opening wide the doors of understanding for all.

Thus, the Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation stands tall like towering mountains, deep like the boundless seas, and vast as the infinite horizons. It illuminates the path for seekers of knowledge and opens doors for researchers to drink from the inexhaustible fountain of the Qur'an, discovering new horizons in understanding the Glorious Book of Allah.

Central Idea: A Comprehensive Vision of Rhetorical Inimitability

The Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation offers a comprehensive vision of Allah’s Book from a unique rhetorical perspective. It delves into the depths of the Qur'anic text to highlight its rhetorical inimitability and uncover its intricate meanings, as if decoding a divine cipher embedded by Allah in His miraculous words.

The encyclopedia is founded upon three main pillars:

  1. Comprehensive Rhetorical Analysis: It examines every aspect of Qur'anic rhetoric with exceptional precision—from words to sentences to surahs—like weaving delicate threads of light into an intricate tapestry.
  2. Precise Linkage Between Rhetoric and Exegesis: It demonstrates how rhetorical techniques contribute to unveiling the nuanced meanings of verses, opening a window into a world of flowing meanings.
  3. Rigorous Scientific Methodology: It establishes precise standards for rhetorical analysis, blending the authenticity of heritage with modern innovation, building a bridge that connects the past to the present.

With this unique approach, the encyclopedia opens new horizons in understanding the Qur'an, offering the world a comprehensive depiction of its eternal rhetorical inimitability, as if igniting the lamps of knowledge amidst the darkness of ignorance.

Outcomes of the Encyclopedia

The Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation culminates its efforts with key outcomes that enrich the scholarly arena, offering fruits plucked from the bountiful tree of Qur'anic knowledge:

  1. Highlighting Qur'anic Rhetorical Inimitability:
    The encyclopedia vividly showcases the Qur'an's rhetorical inimitability, unveiling its linguistic miracles. It is akin to removing the veil from a hidden treasure, revealing the unmatched eloquence of the Qur'an in its finest details.
  2. Innovative Approach to Understanding Qur'anic Meanings:
    Through meticulous rhetorical analysis, the encyclopedia provides an innovative approach to comprehending Qur'anic meanings, deepening understanding and broadening horizons. It opens new windows into the linguistic beauty of the Qur'an, revealing previously unseen marvels.
  3. Unifying Scholars’ Efforts:
    The encyclopedia unifies the efforts of scholars in the field of rhetorical exegesis, gathering scattered knowledge into a cohesive and harmonious body of work. It is like weaving disparate threads into a radiant garment of Qur'anic scholarship.
  4. Establishing a Rigorous Scientific Methodology:
    The encyclopedia establishes a rigorous scientific methodology for studying Qur'anic rhetoric, blending the authenticity of tradition with contemporary insights. It builds a sturdy bridge connecting past legacies with present aspirations, guiding generations of researchers and learners.
  5. Simplifying Qur'anic Rhetoric:
    The encyclopedia makes Qur'anic rhetoric accessible to both general readers and specialists, bridging the gap between society and Allah’s Book. It opens wide the gates of understanding, allowing everyone to enter the lush gardens of the Qur'an.
  6. Enriching Qur'anic Studies:
    By linking exegesis with rhetoric in a harmonious framework, the encyclopedia enriches Qur'anic studies with a comprehensive scholarly reference, offering a golden key to unlock the Qur'an’s secrets.
  7. Opening New Research Horizons:
    The encyclopedia inspires researchers to delve further into the rhetorical inimitability of the Qur'an, sparking the flame of inquiry. It lights the way for scholars and researchers, illuminating their path with the brilliance of Qur'anic knowledge.

Thus, the Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation stands tall, as steadfast as towering mountains and as vast as boundless oceans. It illuminates the path for seekers of knowledge, opening doors to drink from the inexhaustible well of the Qur'an. It is, indeed, a ripe fruit of blessed scholarly efforts and a cornerstone in the towering edifice of Qur'anic knowledge.

 

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Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation is a groundbreaking scholarly work that provides a comprehensive and integrated study of the Noble Qur'an from a rhetorical perspective. This encyclopedia aims to highlight the eloquent miracles of the Qur'an and uncover the subtleties of its meanings through an in-depth analysis of its rhetorical styles.

This is a brief view of our articles regarding the Encyclopedia:

First Article: We shine a light on the book’s identity, its detailed content, and a comprehensive introduction. Additionally, we introduce the distinguished scientific team and the outstanding scientific director who led this ambitious project.

Second Article: With Allah’s help, we discuss the encyclopedia’s significance and noble objectives, highlighting its main themes and unique features. We address its central idea: “A Comprehensive Vision of Rhetorical Miracles” and conclude by presenting its most impressive results.

Third and Final Article: We delve, by Allah's will, into the encyclopedia’s methodology, detailing its precise steps, offering a critical and reflective reading, and concluding with the key distinctive features of this remarkable scholarly achievement.

The encyclopedia adopts a rigorous scientific approach, blending classical Quranic interpretation with innovative rhetorical analysis. It begins by analyzing words, then progresses to sentences, ayahs, and surahs, considering the broader context of the Qur'an. It covers all rhetorical aspects, including meanings, expressions, and beautification, linking them to the interpretative meanings of the ayah.

The encyclopedia is distinguished by its comprehensiveness in addressing rhetorical aspects, scientific precision in analysis, and its integration of theoretical and practical elements. It provides fresh insights into understanding the rhetorical miracles of the Qur'an.

The book consists of dozens of volumes, beginning with an introduction that explains the importance of rhetorical interpretation and the encyclopedia's objectives. It then elaborates on the methodology used in rhetorical analysis before moving to the detailed rhetorical interpretation and analysis of each surah, starting with Surah Al-Fatiha.

This encyclopedia serves as an essential reference for researchers and scholars in Quranic tafsir and rhetoric. It also facilitates the understanding of Quranic eloquence for both general readers and specialists alike, opening new horizons for research in the field of Quranic rhetorical miracles.

 Book Details

Title: Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation
Author: A team of scholars and researchers.
Publisher: Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah
Year of Publication: 2024.
Volumes and Pages: Currently, 25 volumes have been printed, covering up to Surah Al-Hijr. Each volume is approximately 800 pages. The remaining volumes are expected to be printed within the next two years, as stated by Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi, the scientific director of the project.

Contents of the Book

  1. Introduction: Discusses the importance of rhetorical interpretation and the motivations behind composing the encyclopedia.
  2. Methodology: Will be elaborated on in upcoming articles.
  3. Team and Supervision: Collective efforts serving the Book of Allah.

The greatness of the encyclopedia lies in the immense collaborative efforts by a diverse group of scholars under a well-established institutional framework.

Sharjah Quranic Complex: A Scientific Umbrella

The Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah assumes the overall supervision of this noble project. The selection of this esteemed institution reflects a commitment to quality and scientific accuracy. With its wealth of expertise and distinguished personnel, the Academy is the ideal incubator for a project of such magnitude and significance.

The team working on the encyclopedia comprises around 40 scholars distributed across various complementary tasks:

  • Writers and Revisers: Approximately 30 scholars handle writing, revising, and proofreading. These anonymous heroes dedicate their utmost effort to crafting and refining the academic content.
  • Review Committee: Consisting of 10 leading scholars in rhetoric and Quranic tafsir worldwide, this committee acts as a safety valve for the encyclopedia, ensuring the content meets the highest academic standards.

 A Continuous Effort and Gradual Achievement

The preparation of the first section of the encyclopedia, covering up to the end of Surat Al-Hijr, took two full years. This effort resulted in 25 volumes filled with profound rhetorical analysis and precise interpretation.

It is anticipated that completing the entire Quranic interpretation will take an additional two years, in Allah’s will. This timeline reflects the vast scope and depth of research and analysis required for such endeavor.

To maintain the highest standards, a special supervisory council has been formed to oversee the preparation of the encyclopedia. This council ensures consistency across the various stages of the work and provides necessary guidance to the team, contributing to the efficient and effective realization of the project's goals.

The project enjoys the personal follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al-Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah. His patronage is not merely symbolic but involves close monitoring of the project's progress and outputs. This high-level support underscores the significant importance placed on Quranic studies and provides both moral and financial backing for the project's successful completion.

Dr. Mohamed Safi Al-Mosteghanemi plays a pivotal role in this grand project through two primary contributions:

  1. Scientific Supervision: He skillfully steers this huge project's direction, develops scientific plans, guides the team, and meticulously reviews the written material, ensuring its coherence and completeness.
  2. Active Participation in Writing: He uses his extensive expertise to enrich the encyclopedia's content, with his profound analyses and innovative perspectives in Quranic rhetorical interpretation adding unique academic value.

A Life Rooted in Knowledge and Faith

Born in 1965 in the coastal Algerian city of Mostaganem, Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi grew up in a noble family that instilled in him a love for learning and a passion for knowledge. Losing his father at a young age, he was nurtured by a wise and loving mother who supported and guided him. Therefore, he grew up with a fond of knowledge and embraced the Quran with devotion, memorizing and contemplating its ayahs as if drawing from an inexhaustible fountain.

A Distinguished Academic Journey

Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi pursued a path of relentless intellectual growth. Specializing in Arabic language and literature, he sought further knowledge in the Levant, a region renowned for its scholars. There, he sat with esteemed experts, learning Quranic Qira'at and Tajweed. This was the foundation of his distinguished career as a prominent scholar in rhetoric and tafsir.

A Unique Passion for Quranic Rhetoric

Over time, Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi’s passion for Quranic rhetoric intensified. He delved deep into its intricacies like a skilled diver exploring hidden treasures, contemplating its exquisite structure that captivates the intellect. This fervent dedication led him to pioneer a new field called “The Science of Surah’s Comparisons.” He authored his widely renowned book “Jawāhir al-durar fī ‘ilm muqāranāt al-Suwar,” introducing a novel dimension in the history of Quranic studies.

Spreading Knowledge and Sharing Benefits

Beyond research and writing, Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi sought to spread his knowledge widely. He launched his renowned program “In the Company of a Surah,” which has continued for over five years, producing hundreds of episodes. This program has become a guiding light for those eager to understand the Quran, offering viewers the essence of his insights and expertise in Quranic interpretation and rhetoric.

Crowning a Fulfilling Career

Today, Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi crowns his rich academic journey by serving as the Scientific Director of the Encyclopedia of Rhetorical Interpretation. This monumental project consolidates the best of rhetorical and tafsir studies of the Quran. Dr. Al-Mosteghanemi oversees this ambitious endeavor with the wisdom of a seasoned scholar and the passion of an inspired researcher, channeling his vast experience to serve the Book of Allah. 

 

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