and omissions once it was collated with the manuscript copies; yet it departs from them in many places, contains some significant additions to the archetype, and shortens the wording—especially in the Qur’anic verses. I designate it as (Ṭ). The source from which this edition was typeset is most likely the Dar al-Kutub al-Misriyya manuscript [13 M Majāmiʿ], folios 139–148, as recorded in the Khedivial Catalogue (7/519) and the Second Dar al-Kutub Catalogue (1/311). I have tried repeatedly to obtain that copy but did not succeed, and I was informed that it is no longer extant.

After collating the archetype with the manuscripts and the printed edition, I established the text, supplied vocalization where necessary, and added notes that document it and remove any ambiguity. These annotations are intentionally brief, for the subject has no need of lengthy commentary, and a reader who can grasp the text with ease requires no further explanation.

In conclusion, I praise Allah for His enabling grace and ask Him for guidance and correctness; He is indeed the best Patron and the best Supporter.

Written by
Muhammad ʿAzīr Shams