Is it obligatory to memorize the meanings of the Qur’an and understand them along with memorizing it, and is one rewarded for memorizing the meanings?

Memorizing the Qur’an while understanding its meanings is a required matter, for the Qur’an was revealed to be recited, its meanings pondered, and acted upon. Ibn Abd al-Barr mentioned that the first stage of seeking knowledge is to memorize the Qur’an and comprehend it, and that it is preferable for the student to learn the meanings of the Qur’an at the time of memorizing it. The guidance of the Companions was to learn ten verses, their meanings, and to act upon them. This emphasizes the importance of learning the meanings of the Qur’an for pondering, acting upon it, and inviting others to it. Understanding the meaning is sufficient, and there is no need to memorize the exact wording of the meanings verbatim.