The Meaning of a Persian Verse on Ta'wil

Question

[ar]کردمی تاویل بکر را خویش را تاویل کن نے ذکر را[/ar] What is the meaning of this [Persian] verse?

Answer

The gist of this verse is: do not apply ta'wil (allegorical reinterpretation) to the words of the Qur'an on the basis of your own mind and inclinations — that is, do not replace the original meaning and intend another meaning by your own choice; rather, apply ta'wil to your own mind and inclinations — that is, bring them into conformity with the Qur'an.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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