1. Descriptive Overview of the Book
Book Title: Safwat Al-Tafaseer.
Author: Sheikh Muhammad Ali Al-Sabouni.
Content: An interpretation of the Holy Quran, combining authentic tafsirs (like Al-Tabari, Ibn Kathir, Al-Qurtubi, and Al-Zamakhshari) in an accessible style and modern language.
Number of Volumes Offered: 3 volumes (Part One, Part Two, Part Three).
Publisher: Manahil Al-Urfan Foundation (Beirut) / Distribution: Al-Ghazali Bookstore (Damascus).
First Edition 1986 AD
2. Book Condition (Based on Visual Inspection)
External Binding: The volumes are bound in a luxurious, artistic binding (gazelle's heel) in black with gilded Islamic decorations on the cover. The gilding and decorations are clear and have retained their shine excellently.
Structural Integrity: The edges and corners appear sound, with no significant wear or tears at the spine, indicating the books were stored carefully.
Overall Condition Assessment: Excellent to Very Fine for a book approaching 45 years of age.
3. Is the Book Rare?
Rarity Classification: Semi-rare / Desired Edition.
Explanation: The book "Safwat Al-Tafaseer" itself is not rare in terms of text, as it is widely available and has been printed hundreds of times. However, this specific edition (Manahil Al-Urfan Beirut edition, early 1980s Hijri/Gregorian) is considered one of the old and highly sought-after editions by students of knowledge and book collectors for several reasons:
Textual Integrity: Early editions by Sheikh Al-Sabouni are distinguished by their original text before later modifications or abridgments that occurred in some publishing houses.
Paper and Print Quality: Beirut printing presses of that era were known for their quality paper and freedom from typographical errors compared to modern commercial editions.