The Issue of the Circumstantial Adverb (Ḥāl) Occurring from the Genitive (al-Muḍāf Ilayh) According to Ibn al-Shajarī

Abstract

     The book Al-Amālī by Ibn al-Shajary is considered one of the most prominent grammatical works that addressed controversial issues among grammarians, compiling their views and analyzing them with fairness and precision. Ibn al-Shajary showed particular concern for the foundational principles of Arabic grammar, relying on transmission (al-samāʿ), analogy (al-qiyās), and consensus (al-ijmāʿ), coupled with an analytical approach that reveals his depth of mastery and scholarly rigor.  This study addresses a specific grammatical issue discussed by Ibn al-Shajary: the permissibility of the ḥāl (circumstantial accusative) referring to the genitive noun (al-muḍāf ilayh). This issue has been a point of disagreement among grammarians, the majority of whom rejected or weakened the construction due to the separation it entails between the governing element and the ḥāl. Ibn al-Shajary agreed with this position and regarded the construction as weak, supporting his view with arguments based on analogy and linguistic usage—demonstrating his precision in reasoning and commitment to the principles of the grammatical system. This research aims to present Ibn al-Shajary’s stance on the issue, analyze the basis of his argument, and highlight the influence of grammatical foundations in shaping his views. It also includes a presentation of opposing opinions from other grammarians, an analysis of their evidence, and a balanced comparison between the two perspectives, ultimately leading to a well-reasoned scholarly judgment.