Understanding Tafsir: The Explanation of the Quran

Introduction

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

Tafsir, the interpretation of the Quran, plays a pivotal role in understanding the divine message. Scholars have dedicated centuries to exploring and explaining the meanings of Allah’s words. In this blog, we will examine how Tafsir evolved, focusing on the primary sources of Tafsir: the Quran itself, the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and the views of the companions and scholars.

1. Tafsir by the Quran

The Quran often explains its own verses. When a term or concept is introduced, other verses may clarify its meaning. For instance, Allah mentions "Al-Qari'ah" (The Striking Calamity) and then provides an explanation:

"The Striking Disaster! What is the Striking Disaster? And what will make you realize what the Striking Disaster is?" (Quran 101:2-3)

Allah describes how people will be like scattered moths and mountains like fluffed wool, illustrating the Day of Judgment.

2. Tafsir by the Prophet (peace be upon him)

The most authentic Tafsir comes from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He provided explanations to his companions when they had questions. For example, regarding the verse:

"Those who do good will have the finest reward and ˹even˺ more. Neither gloom nor disgrace will cover their faces. It is they who will be the residents of Paradise. They will be there forever." (Quran 10:26)

Suhaib reported the Prophet (peace be upon him) saying:

"When those deserving of Paradise would enter Paradise, the Blessed and the Exalted would ask: Do you wish Me to give you anything more? They would say: Hast Thou not brightened our faces? Hast Thou not made us enter Paradise and saved us from Fire? He (the narrator) said: He (God) would lift the veil, and of things given to them nothing would be dearer to them than the sight of their Lord, the Mighty and the Glorious." (Sahih Muslim 181a)

3. Tafsir by the Companions

The companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) were the best generation to interpret the Quran due to their proximity to the Prophet and direct understanding of the context of revelation. Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him), known as the "Interpreter of the Quran," is one of the most renowned in providing Tafsir.

4. Tafsir by Scholars

After the companions, subsequent generations of scholars compiled detailed explanations. Scholars like Imam At-Tabari and Ibn Kathir wrote extensive Tafsir works that continue to guide Muslims today. These scholars relied on the Quran, Hadith, and linguistic analysis to clarify meanings.

5. Applying Tafsir in Our Lives

Tafsir is not just an academic pursuit but a means to implement the teachings of the Quran. For instance, the command to establish Salah and pay Zakah is often briefly stated in the Quran. However, the Prophet’s detailed instructions on prayer and charity provide practical guidance.

"Establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. Whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you will ˹certainly˺ find ˹its reward˺ with Allah. Surely Allah is All-Seeing of what you do." (Quran 2:110)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"Pray as you have seen me praying." (Sahih al-Bukhari 631) Sunnah.com

Conclusion

The study of Tafsir strengthens our connection to Allah’s words, fostering a deeper understanding of our faith. By reflecting on the Quran and consulting authentic Tafsir sources, we can apply its lessons in our lives. May Allah grant us the ability to comprehend and act upon His guidance. Ameen.

References:

1. Quran 101:2-3
2. Quran 10:26
3. Quran 2:110
4. Sahih Muslim 181a
5. Sahih al-Bukhari 631