How can one obtain a correct interpretation of the Quranic verses?

Obtaining a correct interpretation of the Holy Quran's verses is not merely a science, but an art and an insight rooted in relying upon Allah and following divine guidance. The Quran, the luminous and guiding word of the Almighty, is like a deep ocean of knowledge that requires a skilled swimmer, familiar with its currents and underlying principles, to truly comprehend its depths. The ultimate goal of achieving a correct interpretation is to precisely understand the divine message, implement it in individual and societal life, and ultimately attain true felicity in this world and the hereafter. This path has its unique complexities and can only be navigated successfully with a comprehensive approach and by adhering to the principles meticulously laid down by righteous scholars throughout Islamic history. Let us delve into these principles in detail. The first and most crucial cornerstone of correct interpretation is relying on the Quran itself to understand the Quran. The Holy Quran, in a miraculous manner, interprets and clarifies itself. The clear and precise verses (muhkamat), which have an explicit and decisive meaning, form the foundation for interpreting the ambiguous and multifaceted verses (mutashabihat), which may have multiple interpretations or require further clarification. Allah explicitly states this principle in Surah Al-Imran, verse 7: "It is He who has sent down to you the Book. In it are verses precise, which are the foundation of the Book, and others unspecific. As for those in whose hearts is deviation, they will follow that which is unspecific of it, seeking discord and seeking an interpretation [suitable to them]. And no one knows its [true] interpretation except Allah. But those firm in knowledge say, 'We believe in it; all [of it] is from our Lord.' And no one will be reminded except those of understanding." This verse serves as a warning to those who, with impure intentions and for the sake of creating discord, delve into the ambiguous verses. In contrast, "those firm in knowledge" are individuals who, with complete faith in the unity and comprehensiveness of the divine word, accept both types of verses as from their Lord and submit to divine wisdom. This approach teaches us to always seek the meaning of a verse in light of other related verses and the overall message of the Quran. Secondly, the Sunnah and the pure conduct of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) are the most vital sources for interpreting the Quran after the Quran itself. The noble Prophet of Islam was the first and most perfect interpreter of the Holy Quran. He was not merely the conveyor of revelation but also its explainer and clarifier. The Quran states in Surah An-Nahl, verse 44: "And We have sent down to you the message that you may explain to the people what was sent down to them." This verse clearly indicates that explaining the verses was one of the primary duties of the Prophet (PBUH). His sayings (hadith), practices (sunnah), and tacit approvals are, in essence, the practical and applied interpretation of the Quran. Neglecting the Prophetic Sunnah is akin to trying to read a map without its key; many details of worship, legal rulings, and even ethical and theological concepts would be misunderstood or remain incomplete without referring to the Sunnah. The Prophet (PBUH), through his words and actions, shone the light of Quranic guidance upon hearts and lives. The third solid foundation for interpretation is a profound mastery of the Arabic language and its literature. The Holy Quran was revealed at the pinnacle of Arabic eloquence, rhetoric, and literary beauty. Without a precise and nuanced understanding of morphology (sarf, word structure), syntax (nahw, sentence formation), lexical meanings (etymology and various usages of words), as well as rhetorical sciences like Ma'ani, Bayan, and Badi', one cannot grasp the profound meanings of the Quran. Even a small change in a letter, a vowel mark, or a grammatical structure can completely alter the meaning of a verse. Many common interpretative errors stem from insufficient command of this vital aspect. The Quran is rich with allusions, metaphors, idioms, and conciseness that are only comprehensible with a high level of literary taste and knowledge. Fourth, awareness of Asbab al-Nuzul (occasions of revelation) plays a significant role in understanding the historical and cultural context of the verses. Knowing when, where, and in response to what event, question, or circumstance a particular verse was revealed can help clarify ambiguities and lead to a more accurate understanding of the divine intent. However, it must be noted that the occasion of revelation does not restrict the ruling of the verse; meaning, the ruling of a verse is usually general and not confined to that specific instance of revelation. Nevertheless, understanding the Asbab al-Nuzul unveils many details and subtle nuances of meaning, preventing superficial interpretations. Fifth, knowledge and mastery of related Islamic sciences are essential. Quranic interpretation is an interdisciplinary science, and the exegete must possess knowledge of various fields such as: Ilm al-Qira'at (Science of Readings, for understanding the different authentic readings of the Quran), Ilm al-Nasikh wa al-Mansukh (Science of Abrogating and Abrogated Verses, for identifying verses whose rulings have been abrogated by another), Usul al-Fiqh (Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence, for deriving legal rulings and principles from the verses), Ilm al-Kalam wa al-Aqa'id (Science of Theology and Beliefs, for understanding theological foundations and addressing doubts), Islamic History and Seerah (Prophet's Biography) and Ahl al-Bayt (for understanding the historical and cultural context of the verses), and Ilm al-Rijal and Dirayat al-Hadith (Sciences of Narrators and Hadith Criticism, for determining the authenticity of narrations used in explaining verses). These sciences assist the exegete in having a comprehensive and profound perspective, preventing errors and deviations. Sixth, and perhaps most importantly, is purity of intention, sincerity, and piety (Taqwa). The Holy Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 2, states: "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah." This verse clearly indicates that being guided by the Quran and the ability to understand it correctly are directly related to one's piety and purity of heart. A heart stained by sins and an intention that is not solely for Allah can never truly comprehend the luminosity of the divine word. Piety acts like spectacles that clear away the dust from one's vision, paving the way for receiving insight and a deeper understanding of the verses. The interpreter must approach the Quran with humility before God's word, with a sincere intention for guidance, and with a heart full of piety. Seventh, avoiding personal interpretation (Tafsir bi al-Ra'y) and consulting specialists and well-established scholars. Allah Almighty commands in Surah An-Nahl, verse 43, and Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 7: "So ask the people of the message if you do not know." This Quranic principle emphasizes that in complex religious matters, especially in interpreting the divine word, one should not rely solely on personal opinion. Great exegetes and religious authorities have dedicated many years of their lives to researching Quranic and Islamic sciences, and by utilizing all the aforementioned principles, they have reached a profound understanding of the Quran. Referring to reputable Tafsir books and benefiting from the knowledge of teachers and pious scholars prevents deviation and subjective interpretations. This does not mean negating personal contemplation and reflection but rather guiding this contemplation within the correct framework and under the guidance of knowledgeable people. In fact, personal contemplation complements consulting the opinions of exegetes, rather than replacing them. Ultimately, achieving a correct interpretation of the Quran is a lifelong journey that requires deep commitment, continuous study, sincerity in intention, complete reliance on Allah, and adherence to divine teachings. This path, through contemplation, reflection, and sincere effort to implement Quranic teachings in all aspects of life, leads to true insight, spiritual tranquility, and eternal felicity, aiding individuals on Allah's straight path.