A Panoramic Overview of the Historical Development of Tafsīr Scholarship in Amasya (14th–20th Centuries)

Authors : Davut Ağbal

Pages : 244-277

Doi:10.18498/amailad.1768241

View : 209 | Download : 161

Publication Date : 2025-11-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This article examines the literature of Qur’anic exegesis [tafsīr] produced in the city of Amasya during the historical period from the 8th century A.H./14th century A.D. to the 14th century A.H./20th century A.D. The aim of the study is to identify the prominent scholars of the tafsīr tradition that formed and developed in Amasya during this period, also the exegetical works they authored, and their activities that fall within the scope of the science of tafsīr, thereby determining the city’s position within the history of tafsīr specifically and the history of Islamic thought in general. To achieve this, the study employs a historical-documentary methodology, primarily utilizing comprehensive literature review. In this regard, in addition to historical works, biographical dictionaries [ṭabaqāt], and autobiographical sources, manuscript library catalogues in Türkiye were examined, thereby enabling the compilation of a comprehensive dataset. As a result of this, source surveys were identified, the names of one hundred and forty-three exegetes [mufassirūn] associated with Amasya in some way during the period extending roughly from the beginning of Ottoman rule in the region to the early years of the Republic of Türkiye. It was determined that forty of these exegetes authored works of tafsīr. Furthermore, it was observed that these scholars produced one hundred and six works of tafsīr within the relevant historical and geographical atmosphere. In addition, a great majority of them played an active role in the tafsīr education of their time, while eight scholars participated in the Huzur Dersleri (Hudūr Lessons) which were systematically and officially conducted in the presence of the Sultan during the month of Ramadan starting from the 12th century A.H./18th century A.D. The data obtained were classified into chronological and functional tables and subsequently subjected to statistical analyses using various graphs. This methodological approach aimed to test the hypothesis that Amasya constructed a culture of tafsīr in harmony with its historical, social, political, and intellectual contexts, and within this framework, cultivated eminent scholars and produced noteworthy works. The evaluation concludes that Amasya developed a deep-rooted tradition of tafsīr throughout its history, bequeathing a rich exegetical heritage that endures to this day and forming a significant cultural sphere in Anatolia. While this study presents a chronological and bibliographic panorama of the Amasya tafsīr tradition, it must be emphasized that a series of further studies is needed to reveal a more detailed portrait of this tradition. It is envisaged that this article will serve as a resource for future, more in-depth research in the field.
Keywords : Tefsir, Amasya, Müfessir, Tefsir Geleneği, Huzur Dersleri

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL