However, for the average English-speaking layperson, these volumes are often daunting. They are either translated in archaic English, lost in academic jargon, or focus heavily on legal rulings (Fiqh) while neglecting the literary and psychological impact of the Quran. People were learning what Allah said, but not how Allah said it, nor why a specific word was chosen over another.
He makes you realize that the Quran is not an ancient text to be venerated on a shelf, but a speech to be understood, argued with (respectfully), and wept over. Whether you listen to him for ten minutes or ten hours, you will walk away with one thing: the overwhelming certainty that this Book could not have been written by anyone other than the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth. tafseer of quran nouman ali khan
Khan then focuses on the word Wada'aka . He explains that in Arabic, Wada'a doesn't just mean "to leave"; it implies a farewell where the one leaving is done with you and isn't coming back. The Quraysh were accusing Allah of a permanent divorce. He makes you realize that the Quran is
From a scholarly perspective, there is also the criticism that he is not a "Mufti" (jurist) in the traditional sense. Classical Tafseer requires authority in Hadith, Fiqh, and Aqeedah. Critics argue that Khan focuses too heavily on linguistics and often makes emotional or speculative leaps without citing primary sources (the Salaf). He explains that in Arabic, Wada'a doesn't just
"By the morning brightness, And by the night when it covers with darkness, Your Lord has not taken leave of you, nor has He detested [you]." (93:1-3)