THE REASONS AND HISTORICAL CIRCUMSTANCES FOR WRITING THE WORK "TABSIR FI MA'ALIM AD-DIN"

Abstract

This article analyzes the reasons behind the writing of Ibn Jarir al-Tabari’s work “Tabsir fi ma’alim ad-din”, as well as the historical and social factors that influenced its emergence. In addition, the study examines the methodology employed in the work, particularly al-Tabari’s approach to utilizing the primary sources of Islam—the Qur’an and the Sunnah.Based on scholarly sources, the article highlights that in the 9th–10th centuries, during the Abbasid period, theological debates intensified within the Islamic world, leading to the formation of various sects and intellectual trends. In particular, it is shown that the activities of the Mu‘tazilites and other theological movements necessitated the defense of Sunni doctrine.The research employs historical-analytical and comparative methods. The findings demonstrate that “Tabsir fi ma’alim ad-din” was written with the aim of systematically presenting Sunni theology, providing scholarly refutations of heterodox views, and reinforcing the fundamental principles of Islamic creed. The article also examines the work’s place and scholarly significance in the history of ‘aqidah studies.