THE LEXICOLOGICAL MODEL AND METHODOLOGICAL PRINCIPLES IN THE SCHOLARLY HERITAGE OF AL-MUTARRIZI

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive study of the life, scholarly activity, and intellectual legacy of Abu al-Fath al-Mutarrizi, a prominent 12th-century Khwarazmian scholar of the Hanafi school of law, also known as Burhan al-Din al-Khwarazmi. The study examines his contribution to Arabic linguistics, lexicography, and Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), highlighting his role in the development of the classical Arabic scholarly tradition. Special attention is devoted to his major work, «Al-Mughrib fi Tartib
al-Mu‘rib», which is analyzed as a lexicographical-legal encyclopedia and an essential source in Arabic philology. The article explores his biography, educational background, intellectual environment, and participation in scholarly debates in Baghdad and Khwarazm. His principal works-Al-Misbah, Al-Mughrib, and Al-Idah-are critically examined, along with references to his manuscript and lost works preserved in various libraries. The structure and methodology of Al-Mughrib are analyzed in detail, particularly its rootbased alphabetical arrangement and its systematic explanation of complex juridical and lexical terms. AlMutarrizi’s method of supporting definitions with Qur’anic verses, hadiths, and authoritative linguistic sources demonstrates his scholarly rigor and interdisciplinary approach. His work represents a synthesis of fiqh and philology, distinguishing it from purely linguistic dictionaries. The research is based on classical biographical sources such as Ibn Khallikan, Yaqut al-Hamawi, and al-Suyuti, as well as modern studies including those of Carl Brockelmann. Historical-analytical and comparative methods are employed to evaluate his intellectual contributions and assess his influence on later lexicographical works, including AlMisbah al-Munir and Taj al-‘Arus. The study concludes that al-Mutarrizi occupies a significant place in the history of Arabic linguistics and Hanafi jurisprudence. His works remain valuable sources for contemporary scholarship and continue to reflect the depth and richness of medieval Islamic intellectual tradition.