The holy Quran is not just a book of past events or stories. Rather, it’s a book that guides human beings in every area of life. Whether it's science, economics, politics, history, geography, or ethics, the holy Quran contains the knowledge of and provides insights into how they came into being. It also constantly instructs on how to live a successful life both in this world and the world after this.
The holy Quran is the exact words of Allah that were revealed to the prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) for the general guidance of all humanity. It is the ultimate recipe for success and a reference point for all your worries and problems.
The problem is the Quran is in Arabic and non-Arabs don’t understand it. They may be able to read it but don’t understand the actual meaning and message of it. Although the mere reading of the Quran is not without blessings, you are missing the actual purpose if you read it without understanding. To get all the wisdom and knowledge that the Quran provides, it’s imperative that you understand the Quran with meanings.
What is Tafseer?
Tafseer or Tafsir is the elucidation, explanation, and interpretation of the Quranic words with context. It attempts to explain not only the word to word meaning but the whole concept of every Ayah with its context and connotations. It deals with the issues of linguistics, jurisprudence, and theology. A Tafseer course enables you to understand every word of the Quran with its hidden meanings and arrive at independent thinking as to what an Ayah suggests and what are its implications. The aim of Tafseer is to uncover Allah’s will which has been conveyed by the Quranic text, by means of the Arabic language and one's own knowledge.
Benefits of studying the Quran with Tafseer
As stated above, the reading of the Holy Quran brings many blessings and benefits. It provides peace of mind and allows one to spend time productively. Reading the Quran is also an obligation and fulfilling it fills one’s heart with joy. The Quran intercedes on the Day of Judgment on behalf of those who used to recite it in this world. The Holy Prophet says, “The Quran is a proof for you or against you.”
In order to fully benefit from the Quran, studying Tafseer is compulsory. The Quran and the holy prophet have also laid a strong emphasis on understanding the Quran. The following verse explains this importance.
We have sent down to you the Book as clarification for all things and as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the Muslims. [Quran 16:89]
Another verse says:
Say, “What thing is greatest in testimony?” Say, “Allah is witness between me and you. And this Qur’an was revealed to me that I may warn you thereby and whomever it reaches. Do you [truly] testify that with Allah there are other deities?” Say, “I will not testify [with you].” Say, “Indeed, He is but one God, and indeed, I am free of what you associate [with Him].” [Quran 6:19]
There are many verses in the Quran and the sayings of the holy prophet that show the necessity and importance of learning the Quran with translation and Tafseer.
The holy Quran can guide you to the straight path and warn you against evils only if you can understand it. By doing Tafseer, you can understand the real message that Allah wants to convey through His prophet.
