The proper approach in this regard, however, is to make the meaning the objective and the wording a means to it. One should consider the context of the discourse and the purpose for which it was presented, compare it with parallel passages elsewhere, and recognize that it was conveyed to guide all people—the learned and the ignorant, city dwellers and Bedouins alike. Examining the context of the verses, while knowing the Messenger’s circumstances and his dealings with his Companions and enemies at the time of revelation, is among the greatest aids to understanding the Quran and discerning its intended meaning—especially when this is joined with knowledge of the various branches of Arabic.
Whoever is granted success in all this has only to devote himself to contemplating and understanding it, and to sustained reflection on its words, meanings, and necessary implications; what it encompasses; and what it indicates, whether explicitly or by implication. If he exerts his utmost effort in doing so, the Lord is more generous still: He will surely open up for him aspects of its knowledge that lie beyond his own powers of acquisition.
When the Creator graciously enabled me and my brothers to occupy ourselves with His Mighty Book to the extent suited [to us], I wished to set down whatever commentary on Allah’s Book was made easy and whatever Allah bestowed upon us, so that it might serve as a reminder for serious students, a resource for those seeking insight, and an aid to those treading the path. I also wished to record it for fear that it might be lost. My sole aim throughout was to keep the meaning itself as the objective. I did not concern myself with unpacking individual words or intricate constructions, for the reason already stated and because earlier commentators have spared those after them the need to do so. May Allah reward them well on behalf of the Muslims.
I place my hope in Allah and rely upon Him to make easy what I have intended and facilitate what I seek. If Allah does not make it easy, there is no way for it to be accomplished; and if He does not grant His aid, there is no path by which a servant can attain what he hopes for.
I ask Him Most High to make this sincerely for His Noble Countenance and to bring through it widespread benefit. Truly, He is Bountiful and Generous. O Allah, bestow Your blessings and abundant peace upon Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.