تفسیر سراج البیان ازحنیف ندوی کا منہج و اسلوب

The Methodology and Style of Tafsīr Sirāj al-Bayān by Ḥanīf Nadwī

Abstract

The Tafsīr Sirāj al-Bayān by Mawlānā Muḥammad Ḥanīf Nadwī is a prominent Urdu exegesis that stands out for its unique style, clarity of expression, and intellectual depth. This Qur’anic commentary, written in a simple and accessible language, was originally initiated under the guidance of Sheikh Muḥammad Ashraf and later continued with the encouragement of Malik Sirāj al-Dīn. The tafsīr was composed during a challenging personal time for the author, yet it reflects a remarkable scholarly effort, completed in the early 1930s. Divided into five volumes, it covers the entire Qur’an and became widely popular in the Indo-Pak subcontinent, being reprinted multiple times from 1935 to 1966. Mawlānā Ḥanīf Nadwī’s methodology integrates traditional exegesis with rational interpretation, incorporating insights from various disciplines including philosophy, science, and linguistics. He employs a thematic approach in many places and emphasizes the spiritual, moral, and rational teachings of the Qur’an. His deep love for the Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) is also evident through extensive discussions on Prophetic status and finality of prophethood. This research paper provides a critical review of the methodology and style of Tafsīr Sirāj al-Bayān, examining its historical background, structure, linguistic choices, and thematic presentation. The study concludes that this tafsīr plays a significant role in Urdu Qur’anic literature and continues to influence contemporary understanding of the Qur’an among Urdu readers.