Abu'd-Darda and his place in qiraat

Abū al-Dardāʾ is a prominent figure who represents both the exemplary life and scholarly devotion of the generation of the Companions. This study was prepared with the aim of understanding the life, personality, and scholarly character of Abū alDardāʾ—one of the distinguished figures among the Companions—and specifically determining his place within the science of Qirāʾāt (Qur'anic recitation). The thesis first elaborates on his personal life and then focuses on his pioneering role in the field of Qirāʾāt. Known for his ascetic and devout lifestyle, Abū al-Dardāʾ is evaluated not only as a scholar but also as a wise and enlightened figure. He was granted the title "Ḥakīmu'l-Ummah" (the Sage of the Ummah) by the Prophet himself. In the field of Qirāʾāt, he became the founder of the Damascus school, served as a judge and teacher of recitation there, and trained many students. His contributions to the science of Qirāʾāt were not limited to personal instruction; he institutionalized Qur'anic education in the Damascus region. The thesis evaluates the methodological approach he represented in the development of the Qirāʾāt tradition and analyzes his stance on the differences in recitation. Both classical sources and contemporary literature were utilized in this study. Ultimately, Abū al-Dardāʾ's contributions to the formation and dissemination of the science of Qirāʾāt are of great importance in understanding the Companions-based structure of this discipline. Key Words: Abū al-Dardāʾ, Qirāʾāt, Damascus Qirāʾāt School