Tafsir Ibn Kathir is the monumental work of Hafiz Imad-ud-Din Abul Fida Isma'il ibn Umar ibn Kathir (d. 747 AH), one of the greatest scholars in Islamic history. It is not only one of the most renowned Tafasir bil-Riwayah (Qur'anic exegesis based primarily on the Qur'an, the Sunnah, and the narrations of the Companions), but also one of the most authoritative and widely respected commentaries on the Holy Qur'an ever written. No serious student or scholar of Islam can afford to overlook this remarkable masterpiece.
What distinguishes Tafsir Ibn Kathir from other works of Tafsir bil-Riwayah is the extraordinary care and scholarly precision with which Ibn Kathir compiled and authenticated the narrations he cited. A true polymath, he excelled not only in Qur'anic exegesis but also in the science of Hadith. He was a distinguished authority in Jarh wa Ta'dil—the science of evaluating the reliability and authenticity of narrators and prophetic traditions.
Ibn Kathir exercised exceptional caution to ensure that weak or fabricated narrations were not included in his commentary. Likewise, he avoided relying on Isra'iliyyat (reports transmitted from Jewish and Christian sources). Whenever it became necessary to mention such reports, he carefully identified their weaknesses and clarified their status. As a result, Tafsir Ibn Kathir has earned its reputation as one of the most authentic and reliable commentaries on the Qur'an.
Although Tafsir Ibn Kathir has been published and republished countless times in Arabic, meeting the needs of both scholars and Arabic-speaking readers, complete and reliable translations in other languages have long remained scarce.
After being blessed with the opportunity to publish a complete and authentic Urdu translation of this unparalleled work, Darul Ishaat, Karachi, is grateful to Allah for granting it the honour of presenting this comprehensive English translation as well.
This edition is far more than a simple translation. Two experienced scholars have devoted themselves to faithfully rendering the original Arabic text into clear and elegant English. In addition, they have enriched the work with carefully selected explanatory footnotes, drawing upon Ma'ariful Qur'an, particularly on matters involving juristic differences of opinion. These valuable notes have been included to enhance the reader's understanding while preserving the clarity and flow of the original text.
Just as our translators have spared no effort in producing a faithful and accessible English rendition, we at Darul Ishaat have also endeavoured to present this edition in a form worthy of its timeless content. Every aspect of its production has been carefully considered to provide our valued readers with a publication that is both elegant and durable.
Printed in two colours, on premium-quality paper, and finished with superior binding, this edition stands out for both its scholarly excellence and exceptional presentation.
We pray that Allah, through His Infinite Mercy and Grace, accepts this humble effort, makes it a source of continuous reward (Sadaqah Jariyah), a means of guidance and salvation, and a valuable asset for all those involved on the Day of Judgement.
Ameen.
