Sibawayh and His Contributions to Arabic Grammar: An Analysis of His Book Al-Kitab

Abstract

This study discusses the significant contributions of the classical Arab linguist, Sibawayh (d. 180H/796CE), in the formation and development of Arabic grammar through his seminal work, Al-Kitab. The objective of this study is to analyse the methodological approach employed by Sibawayh in formulating Arabic grammatical theory, as well as the impact of his work on the development of modern Arabic linguistics. Using a qualitative and textual analysis approach, this study examines the contents of Al-Kitab, including the use of qiyās (analogical reasoning), empirical methods, and descriptive and deductive approaches grounded in authoritative sources such as the Qur'an and classical Arabic poetry. The study also considers the historical background, the influence of Khalil ibn Ahmad al-Farahidi as Sibawayh’s teacher, and the differences between the Basran and Kufan schools which influenced the formation of grammatical theories. The findings reveal that Al-Kitab not only laid a solid foundation for the standardisation of Arabic grammar but also remains relevant in modern linguistic discourse. This work demonstrates Sibawayh’s ability to formulate grammatical rules scientifically despite not being a native Arabic speaker, making him a pivotal pioneer in the Islamic intellectual tradition.