Quran Tafsir Basics: Understand the Divine Message

Translation gives you the meaning of the words; Tafsir gives you the meaning of the Message. Move beyond surface-level reading and discover the historical, legal, and spiritual depth of the Quran.

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The Definition

What is Tafsir?

Linguistically, Tafsir comes from the root word “Fassara”, meaning to explain, expound, or clarify. In Islamic sciences, it is the detailed explanation of the Quranic verses, extracting their legal rulings, theological meanings, and wisdoms.

Translation vs. Tafsir: Translation converts the language. Tafsir converts the context, history, and intent. A translation says “Strike them”; Tafsir explains “with a Siwak (toothbrush), lightly, as a symbolic gesture of disapproval, not to cause pain.”

The Necessity

Why Translation is Not Enough

Without Tafsir, we risk misunderstanding Allah’s intent. Tafsir provides the missing pieces of the puzzle:

1. Context (Asbab al-Nuzul)

Why was this verse revealed? Was it during a battle? A time of peace? For a specific person? Context changes the application entirely.

2. Specific vs. General

Some verses look general but apply only to specific situations (and vice versa). Tafsir clarifies who is being addressed.

3. Abrogated Verses (Nasikh)

Some rulings were temporary and later updated by other verses. Tafsir tells you which ruling is currently valid.

The Methodology

How is the Quran Interpreted?

We do not interpret the Quran based on our feelings. Authentic Tafsir follows a strict hierarchy of sources:

The Quran by the Quran: Often, one verse explains another.
The Quran by the Sunnah: The Prophet (PBUH) is the primary teacher. His explanations are final.
The Statements of the Sahaba: The companions lived the revelation. They knew exactly when and why verses came down.
The Arabic Language: Analyzing the deep linguistic roots of the words.