The Principles Observed in Taqdir of Ellipsis/Hadhf in the Tafsir Literature

Abstract

This study focuses on the taqdir of the widely employed hadhf (ellipsis) style in the Qur'an and examines the principles exegetes rely on to carry out this process within the tafsir tradition. This study investigates whether the mufassirun carried out the process of taqdir based on systematic principles or acted without reference to a coherent set of rules. It is observed that existing studies primarily focus on the phenomenon of hadhf itself, while there remains a noticeable gap in academic research concerning the principles and criteria that are-or ought to be-taken into account in the process of its taqdir. In this regard, the study aims to fill the gap in the field by presenting a comprehensive, holistic, and systematic examination of the subject. In this context, the study seeks to contribute to the field by outlining and analyzing the methodological framework employed in the taqdir of hadhf. Particularly at a time when questions concerning the nature, methodology, and principles of tafsir are receiving renewed attention, the systematic identification of the principles followed by mufassirun in this regard significantly enhances the importance of the study. The study has been conducted using qualitative research methods within the framework of social sciences, employing techniques such as literature review, document analysis, and content evaluation. The findings of the study indicate that mufassirun operated within a set of defined principles in the taqdir of hadhf. Some of these principles were derived from other disciplines closely related to tafsir-such as Arabic linguistics, balaghah, and usul al-fiqh-and were adopted accordingly in the taqdir process. Others, however, were developed by the exegetes themselves within the framework of tafsir, taking into consideration the unique style and characteristics of the Qur'anic text. Thus, it has been determined that exegetes operate based on systematic principles that are grounded in interdisciplinary foundations, yet shaped and developed through the notion of tafsir.