How Tafseer is Performed

If you ask what is the best method of tafsir, the answer is that the best way is to explain the Qur’an through the Qur’an. For, what the Qur’an alludes to at one place is explained at the other, and what it says in brief on one occasion is elaborated upon at the other. But if this does not help you, you should turn to the Sunnah, because the Sunnah explains and elucidates the Qur’an. Imam Abû ‘Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Idris ash-Shafi’i has said: “All that the Prophet, peace be upon him, has said is what he has derived from the Qur’an.” Allah has said:

We have sent down to you the book in truth that you may judge between me, as Allah guides you; so do not be an advocate for those who betray their trust. [al-Qur'an 4:105]