Zamakhshari's interpretation method of the Qur'ân (Case of al-Kashshaf)

The present study examines Abu al-Qasim Mahmud b. Omar al- Zamakhshari's methodology of interpretation of Qur'an in the context of his commentary, namely, al-Kashshaf an Haqaaiq al-Tanzil wa Uyun al-Aqaavil fi Wujuh al-Ta'weel. Zamakhshari is a multi-disciplined Mutazilah scholar known by his works on the Arabic language and literature beside his al-Kashshaf. Our study consists of an introduction, three chapters and a conclusion. Introduction presents the subject, aim, and method of the study, and evaluates the sources. The First Chapter deals with the general aspects of al-Kashshaf and its sources, and then examines Zamakhshari's understanding of Qur'an and his methodology of commentary. The Second Chapter mentions about the Qur'anic sciences such as Asbab al-Nuzul (occasions of revelation), muhkam-mutashabih (decisive-allegorical), naskh (abrogation), and mushkil al-Qur'an (problems of the Qur'an). The Third Chapter analyzes al-Kashshaf in terms of riwayah and dirayah methods. The study has been conculded by specifying the results we reached and the resources we used. Keywords: Qur'an, Tafsir (Commentary), Mutazilah, Zamakhshari, al-Kashshaf.