Epigraph:

He it is Who has sent down to you (Muhammad) the Book; in it, there are verses that are fundamental — they are the basis of the Book — and there are others that are allegoric. Those in whose hearts is perversity pursue that are allegoric, seeking to create confusion and to pervert their meaning. None knows the meaning thereof except Allah and those firmly grounded in knowledge. They affirm: We believe in it, all of it is from our Lord, and indeed, none takes heed except those gifted with understanding. (Al Quran 3:7)

Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD

Surah Al-Imran, verse 3:7, addresses the composition of the Qur’an, highlighting the presence of both clear (muhkam) and metaphorical or ambiguous (mutashabih) verses. The verse emphasizes that while clear verses form the foundation of the Book, ambiguous ones test the hearts of believers. Those with deviation in their hearts pursue the ambiguous to create discord, seeking interpretations suitable to their desires. In contrast, those firmly rooted in knowledge affirm their belief in the entirety of the Qur’an, recognizing it all as from their Lord.​

The clear verses (muhkam) are straightforward in meaning, serving as the core guidance for believers. They encompass fundamental teachings related to faith, worship, and ethics, providing explicit instructions and principles. These verses are less susceptible to misinterpretation due to their clarity.​

On the other hand, metaphorical verses (mutashabih) possess meanings that are not immediately clear or are open to multiple interpretations. These may pertain to metaphysical realities, allegorical narratives, or descriptions beyond human comprehension. The presence of such verses serves as a test, distinguishing those who seek truth from those inclined toward mischief.​

The verse warns against those who focus on the ambiguous aspects to sow confusion and fitnah (discord). Their pursuit of hidden meanings, driven by ulterior motives, leads them away from the intended guidance of the Qur’an. Conversely, individuals with sound understanding acknowledge their limitations, trusting in the divine wisdom behind every verse. They maintain that all content of the Qur’an, whether clear or ambiguous, originates from Allah and is inherently good.​

This verse underscores the importance of humility and sincerity in approaching the Qur’an. Believers are encouraged to focus on the clear directives for practical guidance while trusting in Allah regarding matters beyond human understanding. It also highlights the necessity of seeking knowledge and being cautious of interpretations that deviate from the core message, ensuring that one’s heart remains aligned with true guidance.

Now, let us pursue a little more detailed understanding of the verse under discussion.

Firstly, the interpretation by Javed Ahmed Ghamidi:

Secondly, the interpretation by Hamza Yusuf:

Thirdly, the interpretation in the recent commentary by Seyyed Hossein Nasr: The Study Quran: A New Comprehensive Commentary, And the Role of Our Website.

Additional reading

After Monotheism, the Two Most Seminal Verses of the Quran