The Ethics and Attributes of the Prophet in Nazm al-Durar fi Tanasub al-Ayat wa al-Suwar by al-Biqāʿī (d. 885 AH)

Abstract

This research examines the ethics and attributes of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as presented in the book Nazm al-Durar fi Tanasub al-Ayat wa al-Suwar by Imam al-Biqāʿī (d. 885 AH), one of the most prominent works of Qur’anic exegesis distinguished by its scholarly depth and its unique methodological approach in revealing the precise coherence between the verses and chapters of the Holy Qur’an. Imam Ibrāhīm ibn ʿUmar al-Biqāʿī is among the scholars who devoted particular attention to highlighting the ethical dimensions within the Qur’anic text, especially those related to the personality of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Through his interpretation, he was able to reveal the features of the Prophet’s moral character as a comprehensive human model that combines spiritual elevation with moral perfection.

The study aims to shed light on al-Biqāʿī’s methodology in presenting the ethics and attributes of the Prophet through the interpretation of Qur’anic verses, and to clarify the approach he adopted in deriving these ethical qualities and linking them to the broader Qur’anic context. It also seeks to demonstrate how al-Biqāʿī regarded these prophetic attributes as clear evidence of the truthfulness of the Prophet’s mission and the greatness of the Muhammadan message. According to his perspective, the moral perfection manifested in the personality of the Prophet (peace be upon him) represents a living proof of the divine origin of the message and the nobility of its objectives.

Furthermore, the research focuses on analyzing a set of fundamental prophetic virtues highlighted by al-Biqāʿī in his exegesis, such as mercy, which encompassed both believers and others; justice, manifested in his dealings with individuals and communities; patience in confronting hardships and trials; and humility, which reflected the greatness of his character despite his elevated status. The study also addresses the impact of these virtues in building a cohesive Islamic society founded upon the highest human values.

Through this analysis, the research seeks to highlight the significance of Nazm al-Durar as an important exegetical source that combines profound Qur’anic analysis with ethical and educational dimensions, making it a rich reference for studying the Prophetic biography from a Qur’anic interpretive perspective.