Interpretation of the Followers of the Successors (Atba' al-Tabi'in) in the Book "Mafatih al-Aghani" by Abu al-Ala al-Kirmani (d. after 563 AH) –Comparative Analytical Study

Abstract

This research examines the interpretations of the Successors of the Successors (Atba' al-Tabi'in) in Abu al-Ala al-Karmani’s Mafatih al-Aghani (d. after 563 AH). It compiles these exegetical accounts and conducts a comparative study against the narrations of the Companions (Sahabah) and Successors (Tabi'in) within the same contexts. The study demonstrates that Mafatih al-Aghani preserves rich traditional commentary (Al-Tafsir bi-al-Ma'thur), allowing for a clear analysis of the dynamics across the three foundational generations of exegesis. Methodologically, the research employs a descriptive-inductive approach for data compilation and an analytical-comparative approach to weigh the interpretations. The study identifies twenty-six distinct contexts, predominantly clarifying Quranic vocabulary. It concludes that the views of Atba' al-Tabi'in broadly align with the Sahabah and Tabi'in, representing differences of diversity rather than contradiction, while highlighting the book's vital role in preserving this interpretive legacy.