What is the interpretation of the Noble Verse in Surat An-Nisa: "But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one"?

The meaning of the Almighty's saying: (But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one or those your right hand possesses) is to clarify Allah's methodology in marriage, and that marrying more than one is conditional on justice between the wives in terms of lodging, spending, and housing. If one cannot do so, then he must suffice with one wife.

As for the Almighty's saying: (And you will never be able to do justice between wives, even if you should strive to do so), this refers to emotional inclination, because the heart may incline towards one of them over the other. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, used to divide his time justly among his wives and then say: "O Allah, this is my division concerning what I possess, so do not blame me for what You possess and I do not possess" (meaning the heart). Therefore, the Almighty said: (so do not incline completely), meaning, do not exaggerate in emotional love to the extent that the other wife becomes like one suspended.