Does this verse imply that earlier scriptures were free from distortion?
Answer
Based on the rest of the charges levelled against the People of Scripture throughout Surat al-Baqarah and beyond, it is clear that this verse does not describe all of them.
Classical commentators such as al-Biqa’i explain that this verse contrasts those of the Jews and Christians who truly recite their scriptures as they ought to be recited, i.e. following them to the fullest, with those who merely recite the scripture (2:113) without contemplating its meanings or sincerely following its teachings. He goes on to explain that those of them who truly study the scripture and contemplate its teachings will realise that their scripture prophesies the coming of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and that his book is a continuation of the message of the previous books.
Another interpretation of this verse is that it refers to the Companions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and it describes their sincerity in wholeheartedly following their book. In either case, it does not support the idea that the previous books remained with those communities in their original form.
Summary
This verse gives no indication that the books of the People of the Book remain in their original form, untampered.
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