One group of exegetes concentrates on collecting reports and transmitted explanations. Their materials may include marfūʿ, mawqūf, and maqṭūʿ reports, alongside reports associated with Israelite traditions. This approach preserves and organizes a large inherited record.
Marfūʿ is attributed to the Prophet, mawqūf to a Companion, and maqṭūʿ to a Successor. These terms identify the endpoint of attribution, not automatic authenticity. Chains, wording, reliability, and relevance still require assessment.
When several Companions explain one verse differently, the reader must ask whether each defines its whole meaning or merely mentions a fitting instance.