What are the definition and opinions regarding Tafsir?

Linguistically, Tafsir (exegesis) means uncovering the intended meaning of an ambiguous word. Technically, it is a science that investigates how the words of the Quran are to be pronounced, their meanings, their rulings, and their implications, along with supplementary matters such as knowledge of abrogation (nasakh) and the reasons for revelation (sabab al-nuzul). It has rules and guidelines. The soundest forms of tafsir are those derived from the Quran and the Sunnah, then from the sayings of the Companions, then the Successors, and then from the Arabic language. As for tafsir based solely on personal opinion, it is accepted if it conforms to the Quran, the Sunnah, and the Arabic language; otherwise, it is rejected, because opinion here might be synonymous with caprice. There are also praiseworthy and blameworthy forms of tafsir based on opinion.