New book available in the library:

Fakhr al-Dīn al Rāzī’s methodology in interpreting the Qurān by Shalahudin Kafrawi.

Many studies have been done of Fakhr al-Dinal-Razi and his system of thought, taking into account his contributions from theology, philosophy, and exegesis. However, works specifically devoted to his exegetical thought have been few. In fact, none of these has dealt with al-Razi’s exegetical methodology in the light of his basic assumptions regarding the Qur’an. In view of this fact, the present thesis aims at elucidating Fakhr al-Din al-Razi’s methodology in interpreting the Qur’an in his magnum opus, known by the title al-Tafsir al-Kabir or Mafatih&dotbelow; al-Ghayb. In order to achieve this purpose, we will focus on his interpretation of the third chapter of the Qur’an, printed in volumes 7, 8, and 9 of the standard edition of his work.
    In overall terms, al-Razi contributed greatly to the dissemination of a rational approach to the study of the Qur’an. Yet, he could not avoid the debate over theological issues, which were common in his time. In many parts of his al-Tafsir al-Kabir, therefore, he defends Ash’arite thought against the views of Mu’tazilites, Zahirites, and the Hashwiyyah, among others.

Fakhr Al-Din Al-Razi's Methodology in Interpreting the Qur'an (PDF)

An excellent essay on one of the major rational Qur'an exegesists of the Middle Ages. A very interesting read.