❖ The Objection
It is often objected that the eloquence of the Qur’an is considered miraculous, and it is claimed that an eloquent discourse should be instantly comprehensible to all. If that is the case, then why is human interpretation and scholarly explanation necessary to understand the Qur’an?
❖ 1. The Qur’an’s Eloquence and Articulation
Indeed, the Qur’an is an eloquent and articulate discourse, not only for its own era but for all generations to come. Experts in the Arabic language unanimously acknowledge its unparalleled rhetoric, precise word choices, and profoundly beautiful style. However, it must be understood that the Qur’an is not an ordinary text—it is the divine speech of Allah that encompasses every aspect of life, discussing profound spiritual, moral, and philosophical matters. The Qur’an’s eloquence does not imply that every portion is instantly clear to every individual without prior knowledge; rather, its message is luminously clear to those who are qualified in the language and the sciences necessary to grasp its depth.
❖ 2. The Importance of Language and Knowledge
Every field of knowledge has its own specialized language, and accessing its depths requires familiarity with that language and discipline. Just as a person cannot easily grasp complex topics in science or philosophy without proper training, the same applies to the Qur’an. Revealed in Arabic, the Qur’an requires a foundational understanding of the Arabic language and Qur’anic sciences. It is neither illogical nor surprising that comprehending a high-level discourse necessitates learning and scholarly effort.
❖ 3. The Need for Human Explanation
The objection that human explanation should not be needed to understand the Qur’an stems from a misconception. Every field of knowledge—religious or worldly—requires guidance from experts and instructors. Similarly, the Qur’an requires the guidance of scholars and commentators to help us access its deeper meanings. This is not a flaw of the Qur’an, but a reflection of our own limitations, which make the presence of teachers essential for understanding.
❖ 4. Prejudice and the Spirit of Criticism
Many who raise such objections are already intellectually biased, and their questions are not born from genuine inquiry but from a predisposition toward criticism and rejection. Even when presented with clear facts, such individuals are unable to accept them because their minds are already confined within a particular framework. Therefore, understanding the Qur’an requires a pure intention and an open heart.
✦ Conclusion
The eloquence and rhetorical excellence of the Qur’an are indisputable, yet understanding its depth requires knowledge of its language and context. The need for scholarly explanation reflects our own intellectual limitations, not a deficiency in the Qur’an. It is crucial to approach the Qur’an with sincerity and openness rather than preloaded objections.
