Straight Forward and Multiple Meaning or Allegorical Verses (3:7 – 3:9)

3:7 He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses – which constitute the essence of the scripture – as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to create confusion, and to extricate a certain meaning. None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, “We believe in this – all of it comes from our Lord.” Only those who possess intelligence will take heed.

3:8 “Our Lord, let not our hearts waver, now that You have guided us. Shower us with Your mercy; You are the Grantor.

3:9 “Our Lord, You will surely gather the people on a day that is inevitable. GOD never breaks a promise.”

We should not pursue the multiple meaning verses unless it can be supported by straightforward verses. It is like a traffic light telling us where it is okay to go, where to slow down and when to stop.

Exploration can help us because it allows us to see things in a new angle and gain a deeper understanding as long as the answers can be supported through God’s revelations and the straight forward verses. The understanding of the Quran should not contradict the Quran.

The Quran is infinite in depth and understanding, and God chooses what He wants to reveal to His servants. The more wholehearted we are the more layers He allows us to see.