Munasabah from the Perspective of Qur'anic Science: A Study of Al-Itqan fi Ulumil Qur'an by As-Suyuthi (D. 1505 Ad)

Abstract

Munasabah in Ulum al-Qur’an is a study that examines the relationships and semantic connections among parts of the Qur’an, including words, sentences, verses, and chapters. Linguistically, munasabah means closeness or relationship (al-muqarabah), while terminologically it refers to the coherence and continuity of meaning within the Qur’anic structure. Scholars such as-Suyuthi and Fakhruddin al-Razi emphasize that this interconnectedness constitutes part of the Qur’an’s miraculous and aesthetic composition. The study of munasabah covers relationships between verses within a chapter and between chapters, including the linkage between a chapter’s beginning and ending, as well as the correspondence between its name, content, and purpose. An example of munasabah appears in the thematic continuity among Surahs Al-Fatihah, Al-Baqarah, and Ali ‘Imran: Al-Fatihah contains the core teachings of monotheism and the supplication for guidance; Al-Baqarah elaborates the foundations and laws of religion; and Ali ‘Imran complements composed and addresses matters of faith. Thus, munasabah demonstrates that the Qur’an is in a unified and harmonious manner. This approach facilitates a holistic, contextual, and integrated understanding of Qur’anic meanings while affirming the unity of theme and the inimitable structure of the Qur’an