Abstract:
This article explores the grammatical commentaries produced by Yoruba scholars in Nigeria and their role in the development of Arabic grammar in the region. It highlights the intellectual efforts of both classical and modern Yoruba scholars who engaged deeply with Arabic syntactic texts, authored by Arabs and non-Arabs alike, through explanation, analysis, and simplification. The study outlines the historical context of Arabic grammatical studies in Yorubaland, tracing their development from the spread of Islam and the early scholarly traditions in major Yoruba cities such as Ilorin and Ibadan. Drawing from various documented examples, the article highlights the use of prominent Arabic texts like Al-Ajurrumiyya and Alfiyya Ibn Malik and how Yoruba scholars studied as well as authored significant grammatical commentaries to suit the linguistic and pedagogical needs of their communities. The article concludes by emphasizing the continuity of this tradition in modern academic contributions, which reflect both adherence to classical methods and adaptation to contemporary educational frameworks
Keywords: Arabic Grammar, Yoruba Scholars, Al-Ajurrumiyya, Alfiyya Ibn Malik, Arabic Linguistic Heritage, Islamic Education, Traditional Scholarship
DOI: www.doi.org/10.36349/tjllc.2025.v04i01.022
author/Dr. Kazeem Ibrahim
journal/Tasambo JLLC 4(1) | May 2025 |
