DefinePK

Abstract

Imām Zamakhsharī (1075–1144 CE) was a renowned Muʿtazilī scholar, linguist and exegete, best known for his Qurʾānic commentary al-Kashshāf. This research explores his interpretive methodology, focusing on his linguistic and rhetorical analysis while critiquing his Muʿtazilī theological biases. Zamakhsharī emphasized the Qurʾān’s eloquence, employing balāgha (rhetoric) to uncover linguistic nuances. However, his interpretations often aligned with Muʿtazilī doctrines, such as rejecting the ruʾyat Allāh (beatific vision of God) and denying the eternal punishment for grave sinners. His polemical tone against Sunnī scholars and his tendency for metaphorical reinterpretation (majāz) of Qurʾānic verses drew criticism from traditionalists like Ibn al-Munīr. Despite theological controversies, al-Kashshāf remains a seminal work in Qurʾānic exegesis, influencing later scholars, including Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī. The study highlights Zamakhsharī’s contributions to Qurʾānic studies while addressing the Sunnī scholarly response to his Muʿtazilī inclinations.