إِنَّآ أَنزَلْنَـٰهُ قُرْءَٰنًا عَرَبِيًّا لَّعَلَّكُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ 2
Translations
Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’ān that you might understand.
Transliteration
Innā anzalnāhu Qur'ānan 'Arabiyyan lallakum ta'qilūn
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah affirms that He has revealed the Qur'an in the Arabic language so that the people might understand it and comprehend its meanings. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this declaration emphasizes the wisdom of revealing Scripture in the native tongue of the recipients, removing linguistic barriers to understanding Divine guidance. The phrase 'لعلكم تعقلون' (so that you might use reason) underscores that the Qur'an appeals to human intellect and rational reflection, not blind acceptance.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears at the beginning of Surah Yusuf and serves as an introduction to the surah itself. It was revealed in Mecca during a period when the Quraysh were challenging the Prophet Muhammad about the language and origin of the Qur'an. The context reflects Allah's response to those who questioned why the revelation came in Arabic rather than another language—establishing that the Arabic language itself is a divine choice suited to the intellectual capacity of the Arabian audience.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best among you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari 5027). Additionally, Umar ibn Al-Khattab reported that the Prophet emphasized understanding over mere recitation, reflecting the principle of intellectual engagement mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
The Qur'an is not meant to be recited passively but actively understood through reflection and reason. Believers are encouraged to engage their intellect with Scripture, as comprehension and contemplation are integral to faith, making this a divine invitation to both heart and mind.