Don’t regard the action’s speed but follow the good performance of a task, for people don’t ask how long it does take but rather they ask about its quality.
Prophet Muhammad (S) said, “The best of you are those who learn the Sacred Quran and teach it” (Sahih Bukhari).
This hadith underlines how important it is that proper recitation is not just a mechanical utterance of the words but carries meaning, contemplation, and action upon its messages in daily life.
This article looks at some manners of Quran recitation-a skill that considerably enhances the spiritual as well as intellectual participation of a Muslim with the holy text. It is based on Prophetic traditions, classical Islamic scholarship, which guides Muslims on how to approach Quran with reverence, humility, and attentiveness.
- Purification (Taharah)
This involves being in a state of physical purification, either before uttering the words of the Noble Quran or before touching the Quranic text; the ablution-wudu-can be made by saying, as Allah says in Quran: “This is an Honored Quran. In a well-guarded book that none touch it except the purified” (Surah Al-Waqi’ah, 56:77-79).
This has been understood by the scholars to mean that one must be in ritual purity while handling Quran or reciting it from memory. Being clean reflects honor and respect for the words of Allah. Further, it is a symbolic purification of heart and mind, where the reciter gets ready for an honest and genuine approach to Quran.
Practical Application
- Perform wudu before handling Quran.
- Avoid reciting the Noble Quran in impure places or states (e.g., during menstruation for women or while in a state of major impurity for men and women).
- Intention (Niyyah)
Reciting the niyyah (intention) of reading the Holy Quran is an essential component of this great act of worship. As Muslims, we believe our intentions play a significant role in determining the value and reward of our actions. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of having a right intention in everything we do, including reciting the Glorious Quran.
Whenever we recite Quran, our intention is to seek guidance, wisdom, and spiritual nourishment from the words of Allah. Quran is considered to be the literal word of Allah revealed to man for our guidance in life. In reciting Quran for guidance and understanding, we expose ourselves to great wisdom and insight from its verses.
Additionally, our intention behind reciting the Sacred Quran should be to seek closeness to Allah and to strengthen our relationship with Him. The act of reciting the Noble Quran is a form of worship that can bring us closer to our Creator and help us develop a deeper connection with Him. By reciting the Glorious Quran with the intention of pleasing Allah and seeking His pleasure, we can elevate this act to a higher spiritual level.
Furthermore, our intention behind reciting Quran should be to reflect on its teachings and apply them to our lives. Quran is not merely a book to be recited, but a guidebook for how we should live our lives in accordance with the teachings of Islam. When we recite the Pure Quran with the intention of understanding its message and incorporating its guidance into our daily lives, we can benefit greatly from its transformative power.
Practical Application- Begin with a sincere intention to seek Allah’s pleasure and guidance.
- Reflect on your purpose—whether you are reciting for memorization, reflection (tadabbur), or just for worship.
- Seeking Refuge in Allah (Istia’dha)
One of the most frequently used expressions for seeking refuge in Allah is ” اعوذ بالله من الشیطان الرجیم” which literally means “I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed devil.” Every time we utter it, we are asking Allah to save us from Shaytan and his evil temptations. This mere phrase is to remind one that there is a spiritual battle between good and evil going on, and one needs Allah’s protection to keep on the righteous path.
Seeking refuge in Allah before reading the Noble Quran is also a reminder toward the human vulnerable self, which is facing all sorts of challenges and trials in this world, where any person can get bewildered and lost. Seeking refuge with Allah from something means having the belief that He alone can save one from it and get him through a trying time. The disbelief in bad omen is an act of resignation to His will and confidence in His wisdom and mercy.
Reciting the Heavenly Quran is a means of drawing closer to Allah and, simultaneously, a way of reinforcing faith. It is one way of seeking guidance and wisdom for living from Allah. By seeking refuge in Him before reciting the Sacred Quran, we show our dependence upon Him and invite blessings into our lives.
This is the invocation that saves the reciter from distractions and keeps him focused on the spiritual and intellectual meanings of the Grand Quran.
Practical Application- Say A’udhu billahi min ash-Shaytan ir-rajim before beginning to recite.
- Avoid distractions and recite in a peaceful environment.
- Reciting with Tarteel (Slow, Measured Pace)
Allah orders in Quran: “And recite the Sacred Quran with measured recitation” (Surah Al-Muzzammil, 73:4). Tarteel, an Arabic word, means clear and slow recitation, giving full pronunciation to each letter and observing all the rules of Tajwid (Tajweed). This will make the meaning of the words fully understood, and the soul is affected by the recitation.
He himself would listen to the Noble Quran in a slow, rhythmic tone, stopping at appropriate places to reflect upon the meanings of the verses. Hasty recitation is discouraged because it reduces the effect of the Glorious Quran on the heart.
Practical Application- Practice reciting slowly and clearly.
- Observe the pauses at the appropriate places, as indicated by the Holy Quran’s punctuation marks.
- Take time to reflect on the meanings of the verses during recitation.
- Reciting with Humility and Reverence (Khushu’)
Listening to Quran is an essential part of a Muslims’ life. Indeed, the words of Quran bring a Muslim closer to Allah and are full of spiritual guidance and enlightenment. However, recitation of the Holy Quran must be done with a feeling heart full of humility.
Humility is one of the most major etiquettes that any Muslim should have. It means to be meek, modest toward others, as well as the self. In terms of reciting the Noble Quran, one important attribute is to show humility in reverence and respect toward the words of Allah.
It simply means one is approaching the words of Allah with sincerity and devotion in the recitation of Quran, that is, realizing one’s limitation and weakness, and conscious of the fact that the Grand Quran, as guidance and wisdom, emanates from an upper power.
It means one approaches the words of Allah with the most open heart and mind. He is willing to listen to what Allah has to convey to him, reflect on how this message applies in his life and circumstances, and consider his actions.
In addition, reciting the Holy Quran with humility also means that one is approaching the words of Allah with a sense of awe and reverence. It means that one is acknowledging the power and majesty of Allah, and recognizing that Quran is a divine revelation that deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. The Grand Quran itself says: “If We had sent down this Quran upon a mountain, you would have seen it humbled and splitting from fear of Allah” (Surah Al-Hashr, 59:21).
This verse illustrates the gravity and majesty of Quran, a message that should inspire humility in the heart of the reciter.
Practical Application- Recite with the awareness that you are engaging with the divine words.
- Reflect on the power and majesty of the Glorious Quran and let it inspire feelings of reverence and submission.
- Engage with the meanings, contemplating their significance and implications for your life.
- Beautifying the Recitation
The Prophet Muhammad said, “He who does not recite the Sacred Quran in a pleasant tone is not of us” (Sahih Bukhari). While the emphasis is upon clarity and correctness, beautifying one’s recitation with a melodious voice, within the guidelines of Islamic decorum, is encouraged. This enhances the spiritual experience for both the reciter and his listeners.
At the same time, it should not be that beautification overrides the essence of understanding and contemplation of the message of the Noble Quran. Too much embellishment or rendering the recitation into some form of entertainment is discouraged.
Practical Application- Practice reciting in a melodious voice, while observing the rules of Tajwid (Tajweed).
- Balance beautification with comprehension and reflection on Quran’s meanings.
- Listen to experienced Quran reciters for inspiration and improvement.
- Reflection (Tadabbur) on Quran’s Meanings
Reciting the Sacred Quran is not merely a ritual act; it is a means of engaging with the divine message. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “Do they not reflect upon the Quran, or are there locks upon [their] hearts?” (Surah Muhammad, 47:24). Reflecting on the meanings of the verses (tadabbur) helps to unlock the wisdom and guidance contained in the Grand Quran.
The practice of tadabbur is one that distinguishes a recitation that is a spiritual act from one that is merely mechanical. Reflection allows the reciter to internalize the teachings of the Holy Quran and apply them to their daily life.
Practical Application- Pause after verses to reflect on their meanings.
- Use translations and Tafsir (exegesis) to enhance your understanding of the verses.
- Discuss the meanings with knowledgeable scholars or peers to deepen your comprehension.
- Consistency in Recitation (Mudawamah)
The Prophet Muhammad (S) emphasized the importance of consistency in acts of worship, including the recitation of Quran. He said: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small” (Sahih Muslim).
This principle applies to Quranic recitation, where regular, even if modest, engagement is better than sporadic large recitations. Reciting the Glorious Quran daily, even if only a few verses, fosters a continuous relationship with the scripture.
Practical Application- Set aside a specific time each day for reciting the Grand Quran.
- Develop a recitation routine that is sustainable and enjoyable.
- Aim to complete a portion of the Noble Quran regularly, such as a Juz’ (portion) per day or week.
- Observing the Rules of Tajwid (Tajweed)
Tajwid (Tajweed) refers to the set of rules governing the correct pronunciation of the letters and the proper recitation of Quran. Learning Tajwid (Tajweed) is essential to ensure that one’s recitation is accurate, preserving the meanings intended by the text. Incorrect pronunciation can sometimes lead to a change in meaning, thus distorting the message of the Heavenly Quran.
Practical Application- Learn the basic rules of Tajwid (Tajweed) from a qualified teacher.
- Practice consistently to perfect your pronunciation.
- Use online resources and courses, such as those offered by the DarulQuran Academy, to improve your skills (see section below).
- Showing Respect for the Physical Mushaf
The physical copy of Quran, known as the Mushaf, should be treated with the utmost respect. Handling the Noble Quran carelessly or placing it in disrespectful locations diminishes the honor it deserves as the word of Allah. Muslims are encouraged to handle the Pure Quran with care and dignity.
Practical Application- Store Quran in a clean and elevated place.
- Avoid placing other objects on top of the Glorious Quran.
- Treat the physical Mushaf with reverence, reflecting the respect for the divine message.
Online Tajwid (Tajweed) Courses in DarulQuran Academy
In today’s digital era, learning Tajwid (Tajweed) has become more accessible through online platforms. DarulQuran Academy offers comprehensive online Tajwid (Tajweed) courses that cater to learners of various levels, from beginners to advanced. These courses are designed to help students master the rules of Tajwid (Tajweed), ensuring accurate and beautiful recitation of the Noble Quran.
The online courses at DarulQuran Academy are conducted by qualified instructors who guide students through personalized lessons. Students can benefit from flexible schedules and the convenience of learning from home, making it easier for them to balance their studies with other responsibilities.
Features of the Online Tajwid (Tajweed) Courses:
- One-on-one sessions with experienced Tajwid (Tajweed) teachers.
- Customized lessons according to the student’s level and pace.
- Flexible scheduling for busy individuals.
- Certification upon successful completion of the course.
DarulQuran Academy is committed to preserving the traditional methods of Quranic learning while adapting to modern needs, providing Muslims around the world with the opportunity to perfect their recitation of the Holy Quran.
