What is Tafsir? Introduction to Quran Interpretation [2026]
Do you read Quran but don't understand it? Tafsir is the science that explains what Allah means in Quran. Without Tafsir, you might misinterpret verses. Allah says: "[This is] a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that they might reflect upon its verses" [Quran 38:29]. Tafsir helps you reflect correctly.
Table of Contents
- What is Tafsir - Definition
- Why Tafsir is Obligatory
- Types of Tafsir
- Famous Tafsir Books
- How to Learn Tafsir as Beginner
What is Tafsir?
Tafsir is explanation of Quran by Quran, by Sunnah, by companions, by Arabic language, and by scholarly reasoning. It tells you: reason for revelation (sabab al-nuzul), meaning of words, ruling, lesson. Prophet ๏ทบ was first Mufassir. Allah says: "And We revealed to you the message that you may make clear to the people what was sent down to them" [Quran 16:44].
Why You Cannot Understand Quran Without Tafsir?
Example: Allah says "And establish prayer" [Quran 2:43] - but how? Tafsir + Sunnah explains 5 prayers, rakahs. Another: "Cut off hand of thief" - but which hand? How much stolen? Tafsir explains conditions. Without Tafsir, people make own interpretations and go astray. This is why random YouTube tafsir is dangerous.
3 Types of Tafsir
1. Tafsir bil-Ma'thur (By Narration)
Explanation of Quran by Quran itself, then by Hadith of Prophet ๏ทบ, then by sayings of Sahaba. Most authentic. Example: Ibn Kathir.
2. Tafsir bil-Ra'y (By Reasoning with Rules)
Explanation based on Arabic language, grammar, Fiqh principles, with conditions. Not personal opinion. Example: Al-Jami' li Ahkam al-Quran by Qurtubi.
3. Tafsir Mawdu'i (Thematic)
Collecting all verses about one topic (like Salah, Zakat, patience) and explaining together. Very useful for beginners in USA/UK.
Famous Tafsir Books for Beginners
- Tafsir Ibn Kathir - Best for beginners, authentic, explains Quran by Quran and Sunnah
- Tafsir al-Jalalayn - Very concise, simple Arabic
- Tafsir al-Sa'di - Easy, focuses on lessons and benefits, perfect for non-Arabic speakers
- Al-Qurtubi - Fiqh rulings from verses
At Al Shimaa Academy, we start with Sa'di and Ibn Kathir for students in USA/UK.
How to Learn Tafsir Online
Don't start alone. Steps: 1) Learn to read Quran with Tajweed, 2) Learn basic Arabic, 3) Start with short surahs - Juz Amma with Tafsir, 4) Study with teacher who explains sabab al-nuzul and lessons. Our Islamic Studies course includes Tafsir of Juz Amma in first level, then full Quran thematic Tafsir.