Ulûm al-Qurʾân in the tafsîr of the Ibadi exegete Kindî

This study examines Kindî's approach to Qur'anic interpretation within the framework of the Ibadi school of thought. The Ibadi school, which emerged in the early period of Islamic thought, is distinguished by its unique theological perspectives and has been particularly influential in the Oman region. Kindî's tafsîr holds significant importance as it is considered one of the earliest known written works within this tradition. This study focuses on how an Ibadi exegete applies principles of Qur'anic interpretation and the place of Kindî's work within this context. The research draws upon tafsīr sources from both the Ibadi and other Islamic traditions, analyzing the Ibadi approach to exegesis within its historical framework. Additionally, classical and contemporary works on ʿUlûm al-Qurʾân have been consulted to provide a broader perspective. Kindī's tafsīr is a concise and summarized work, which, as he himself states, is largely a compilation. Although he frequently references ʿUlûm al-Qurʾân, the brevity of the work limits the extent to which these topics are elaborated. In conclusion, Kindî's tafsîr represents a crucial part of the early written heritage of the Ibadi tradition. Examining and introducing this work into academic literature contributes to a better understanding of Ibadi exegetical traditions. This study not only analyzes Kindī's methods but also provides significant insights into the development of Ibadi Qur'anic interpretation. Keywords: Tafsîr, Ibadi School, Ulūm al-Qurʾân Kindî, Commentator