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Muhammad ibn as-Sā'ib al-Kalbī, also known as Abū n-Nadr, was an Islamic scholar and polymath from Kufa. Born around 737 AD, al-Kalbī is well-regarded for his contributions to Islamic historiography, tafsir (Qur'anic exegesis), and genealogical literature. His works have been foundational to later Islamic traditions and studies.

Early life and education

Muhammad ibn as-Sā'ib al-Kalbī was born and raised in Kufa, Iraq. He received his education there and was known for not traveling extensively, unlike many of his contemporaries. His scholarly pursuits were profoundly influenced by his upbringing and the rich intellectual environment of Kufa.

Career

Contributions to Islamic ccholarship

Al-Kalbī's most significant contributions lie in his works on tafsir and genealogy. His commentary on the Qur'an, known as "Tafsir al-Kalbī, has been influential in shaping later exegesis. Additionally, his genealogical works, including those recounting the histories of various Arab tribes, are considered critical sources of historical knowledge.

Historiographical works

Al-Kalbī's historical narratives provide valuable insights into early Islamic history. His accounts of idol veneration in pre-Islamic Arabia are particularly notable.

Controversies and criticisms

Despite his contributions, al-Kalbī's works have not been free from criticism. Some modern scholars debate the authenticity and reliability of his narrations, particularly those attributed to Ibn Abbas.

Death and legacy

Muhammad ibn as-Sā'ib al-Kalbī passed away in 763 AD (146 AH). His legacy, however, endures through his extensive body of work and the influence he continues to wield in Islamic scholarship. His son, Hisham ibn al-Kalbi, also followed in his footsteps, becoming a renowned scholar and narrator.

References

1. Versteegh, Kees; Versteegh, C. H. M. (January 1995). The Explanation of Linguistic Causes: Az-Za?????'s Theory of Grammar : Introduction, Translation, Commentary. John Benjamins. ISBN 90-272-4562-2.
2. Nehmé, Laïla; Al-Jallad, Ahmad (20 November 2017). To the Madbar and Back Again: Studies in the languages, archaeology, and cultures of Arabia dedicated to Michael C.A. Macdonald. BRILL. ISBN 978-90-04-35761-7.
3. Rubin, Uri (19 April 2022). The Life of Muhammad. Taylor & Francis. ISBN 978-1-351-88676-5.
4. Rubin, Uri (28 October 2024). Muhammad the Prophet and Arabia. Taylor & Francis. ISBN 978-1-040-24377-0.
5. Afsaruddin, Asma (27 June 2013). Striving in the Path of God: Jihad and Martyrdom in Islamic Thought. Oup USA. ISBN 978-0-19-973093-3.
6. Yanagihashi, Hiroyuki (11 October 2021). A History of the Early Islamic Law of Property: Reconstructing the Legal Development, 7th-9th Centuries. BRILL. ISBN 978-90-474-1341-7.

• 8th-century scholars
• People from Kufa
• Historians of Islam
• 763 deaths
• Arab historians