“So when We have recited it, then follow its recitation.”

“So when We have recited it” means: When We have completed its recitation to you via the tongue of Jibril (peace be upon him), who is the conveyor on Our behalf; the attribution is figurative. In this, alongside the choice of the pronoun of majesty (‘We’), is an exaggeration in necessitating compliance.

“Then follow its recitation” means: Be a follower of it, not a rival.

It is also said: When We have recited it, follow it with your mind and contemplation as it is recited to you; listen and be silent. This has been authenticated in a narration by the two Shaykhs (Bukhari and Muslim) and others from Ibn Abbas.

It is also said—according to him (Ibn Abbas), Qatadah, and al-Dahhak—that it means: Follow its recitation by adhering to its commands and prohibitions.

It is further said: Follow its recitation through study, meaning: repeat it until it is firmly established in your mind.