ARABIC:CONTRIBUTIONS OF HAJI KHALIFA (KÂTIB ÇELEBI) IN THE SCIENCE OF QIRA'AT: (AN ANALYTICAL STUDY)

إسهامات حاجي خليفة (كاتب جلبي) في علم القراءات: (دراسة تحليلية)

Abstract

This research examines the efforts of Haji Khalifa (d. 1068/1657), a prominent Ottoman scholar, in advancing the science of Qira'at (Quranic recitations). Through his well-known works, particularly Kashf al-Ẓunūn ʿan Asāmī al-Kutub wa-al-Funūn, he classified Qira'at as one of the core Islamic religious sciences, linking it to the science of Tafsir (Quranic exegesis). He emphasized that Qira'at is a transmitted science, to be passed down through oral tradition rather than debated. In his works, Khalifa meticulously listed foundational texts and authors in the field, organizing them alphabetically and commenting on their scholarly value. His book Sullam al-Wuṣūl ilā Ṭabaqāt al-Fuḥūl focuses on documenting the biographies of notable Qaris (reciters) and teachers of Qira'at, using terms of high praise such as "Qari" and "Shaykh al-Qurra." Additionally, his work Jāmiʿ al-Mutūn min Jal al-Funūn highlights his dedication to teaching, reading, and explaining the essential texts of Qira'at. Haji Khalifa’s contributions helped structure and promoted this significant branch of Islamic scholarship, and his efforts reflect the value he placed on preserving and advancing the science of Quranic recitations.