Arabic grammatical studies in the late 9th and early 10th centuries, with particular reference to the Usūl al-Nahw of Ibn al-Sarrāj

Abstract

This thesis gives particular attention to the Usūl of the noted grammarian, Ibn al-Sarrāj, but some attention is also given to the Mugtadab of al-Mubarrad, his teacher, although this latter work is less significant. This dissertation also provides a more general discussion of grammatical thought as relevant material from the works of earlier and later scholers has also been introduced. Chapter I consists of an account of the history of Arabic grammatical thought up until the early 10th. Century and special attention is given to al-Mubarrad and Ibn al-Sarrāj and their writings on grammar. Chapter II deals with the methodical and systematic approach of Ibn al-Sarraj to his subject matter and assesses the significance of this. Chapter III deals Ibn al-Sarrāj’s discussion of the regent (ʽāmil) and considers related questions. Chapter IV is a discussion of aspects of qiyās an tagdīr, two important concepts in the methodology of the Arab grammarians. Chapter V looks specifically at how qiyās determines the relationship of asl and farʽ. Chapter VI examines how al-Mubarrad and Ibn al-Sarrāj approach two specified topics, the tamyīz and the verb wonder (fiʽl al-taʽajjub). Chapter VII deals with Ibn al- Sarrāj’s treatment of Kufan grammatical thought, and his use of expression “the Baghdadis” is considered. In addition, the question of Kufan influence on Ibn al-Sarrāj is discussed. Chapter VIII consists of an examination of material taken from the Usūl by Ibn Yaʽīsh and incorporated into this commentary of the Mufassal of al-Zamakhsharī.