Tafseer Noor ul-Saqlain by Muhammad Hassan Jaffri is a notable contemporary Qur’anic commentary that draws its inspiration from the classical Shia tradition while addressing the intellectual and spiritual needs of modern readers. The work aims to illuminate the Qur’an through the combined “light” of the Qur’an (Saql-e-Akbar) and the Ahl al-Bayt (Saql-e-Asghar)—the two precious legacies mentioned in the Hadith of Thaqalayn.
Key Features of the Tafseer
1. Ahl al-Bayt–Centric Explanation
Jaffri’s commentary emphasizes narrations from the Prophet (s) and the Imams of the Ahl al-Bayt, providing readers with spiritually rich and doctrinally grounded interpretations.
2. Blend of Narration and Reasoning
The work brings together riwayat (traditions) and aql (rational analysis). It explains verses by combining classical sources with thoughtful, accessible reasoning suitable for general readers and students.
3. Thematic and Analytical Style
Instead of a purely line-by-line explanation, Jaffri often highlights the themes, morals, and ethical lessons embedded in each verse or group of verses.
4. Use of Authentic Sources
The tafseer draws from authoritative Shia works such as
5. Focus on Spiritual and Practical Guidance
The commentary emphasizes:
Purpose of the Work
Muhammad Hassan Jaffri aims to make Qur’anic understanding accessible, authentic, and spiritually transformative for Urdu-speaking Shia Muslims. His intention is to help readers form a stronger connection with the Qur’an by interpreting it through the guidance of the Prophet and his purified Household.
Overall Significance
Tafseer Noor ul-Saqlain stands out for its simplicity, spiritual depth, and firm grounding in traditional Shia scholarship. It serves both as an educational resource for students and a devotional companion for anyone seeking to understand the Qur’an through the lens of the Ahl al-Bayt.