Ahsan Al-Qasas in the Qur'an: A Comparative Analysis Of al-Thabari's and Ibn Katsir's Interpretations

Abstract

The stories in the Qur'an serve as one of the primary means of conveying divine guidance, moral lessons, and values of life. Among these narratives, the story of Prophet Yusuf, described as Ahsan al-Qa?a? (the Best of Stories), holds a unique position and has attracted the attention of Qur'anic exegetes throughout history. This study aims to analyze the concept of Ahsan al-Qa?a? in the Qur'an according to Al-?abari and Ibn Katsir through a comparative exegetical approach. The study is motivated by the persistence of the misconception that the story of Prophet Yusuf is merely a historical narrative, overlooking its profound theological, educational, and divine principles that are highly relevant to human life. This research employs a library research method using a comparative tafsir approach. The primary sources include the Qur'an, J?mi? al-Bay?n ?an Ta?w?l ?y al-Qur??n by Al-?abari, and Tafs?r al-Qur??n al-?A??m by Ibn Katsir, while secondary sources consist of scholarly works relevant to the topic. The findings reveal that Ahsan al-Qa?a?, according to Al-?abari and Ibn Katsir, is characterized by the beauty of its narrative structure, the coherence of its storyline, the clarity of the divine laws reflected in it, and the profound lessons it offers concerning faith, morality, patience, and steadfastness. The study also identifies both similarities and methodological differences between the two exegetes, particularly in their interpretive approaches, use of transmitted reports (riw?y?t), and emphasis on spiritual and ethical values. Through a comparative tafsir approach, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the Qur'anic narratives as an enduring source of guidance for all times and places.