One can put this another way and say that to understand the words of the Quran one has to know the Arabic language; but to understand the meaning of the Quran one needs to be versed in divine wisdom. One can study the Arabic language, read the Quran, and understand outward meaning. But the Quran has meanings that lie hidden beneath the surface. These meanings can only be understood by one who has illuminated his vision with the light of God.
All one has to do to ascertain the words of the Quran is open its pages. But to discover the Quran’s meanings, one has to explore it in depth. One can sit and listen to a recital of the Quran, or hear someone else reading a translation, but this will only enable one to understand the words of the Quran. To penetrate to its inner meanings on the other hand, requires an effort on one’s own part.
If one only studies the Quran on a superficial level, it will only have a superficial effect on one; one’s belief in the Quran will lack the force of inner conviction. One who discovers the Quran in its inner meanings, on the other hand, develops a live attachment to the Book of God. The Quran becomes a source of inspiration and spiritual nourishment in his life. All his thoughts and actions spring from the Quran. It becomes the very life and soul of his existence.