Why are there a vast number of books explaining the Quran's meaning

The vast number of books explaining the Quran's meaning stems from several factors, including the need for interpretation due to the Quran's original Arabic language and the diversity of Islamic thought. The Quran, being a divine revelation, is interpreted through scholarly exegesis (commentary) and personal understanding, leading to various interpretations and explanations. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Need for Interpretation:

  The Quran is primarily in Arabic, and understanding its meaning requires a deeper engagement than simply reading the words. Scholars develop commentaries (tafsir) to explain the verses, their historical context, and their implications. 
• Diversity of Islamic Thought:
• Islam has a rich intellectual tradition with diverse schools of thought (e.g., Sunni, Shia, Sufi). Each school may have its own interpretation of the Quran and its teachings, leading to a variety of commentaries. 
• Scholarly Engagement:
• Quranic scholars have been interpreting and explaining the Quran for centuries. This scholarly engagement has resulted in a vast body of work, including detailed commentaries, theological treatises, and legal interpretations. 
• Practical Applications:
• The Quran's teachings have practical implications for Muslims' daily lives. Scholars and religious leaders explain how to apply the Quran's principles to contemporary issues, which has contributed to the large number of books explaining the Quran's meaning. 
• Different Modes of Interpretation:
• Some interpretations focus on the Quran's literal meaning, while others prioritize its allegorical or symbolic meaning. This variety in approach further expands the range of books and interpretations available. 
• Multiple Quranic Readings:
• There are different approved ways to recite the Quran, each with subtle variations in pronunciation. These readings (qira'at) also contribute to the diversity of interpretations as they can affect how a verse is understood. 
• Influence of Hadith:
• Hadith, or the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, are often used to clarify the meaning of Quranic verses. This has led to the creation of books that explain how the Quran and Hadith relate to each other. 
• Continuous Learning:
• Muslims are encouraged to continuously learn and understand the Quran. This has led to the development of countless books, articles, and online resources that make the Quran accessible to diverse audiences.