Quran is a manuscript from the heavens and a book of guidance for everyone. This status of the Holy Quran bounds us to show respect while carrying and reciting it. This respect should be guided by love, not for the worldly show-off. In this blog, I explained a few etiquettes of reading and learning Quran explained by Quran and Sunnah.
1.Purification:
Before any Islamic ritual, it is necessary to perform Wudu or Ghusl for body purification. Similarly, you should perform Wudu before the recitation of the Quran. Click here to read the correct way of performing Wudu. Purification of the body gives you a mental preparation for reading a holy book. Some scholars say that purification of the mind is also necessary and pure intentions for reading the Holy book are a way of mind purification.
2.Placement of Holy book:
Quran is a sacred text. Therefore, the place where you are placing it must be clean. You can use a pillow or any other support for keeping Quran in a way from where you can easily recite it. After the recitation, you should place Quran in a cupboard or at any other place at some height.
3.Avoid noisy places:
Before recitation, select a quiet place where you can read Quran easily. Noise and other distractions divert our attention from the commands of Allah. As a result, we are unable to focus on the text. Therefore, a silent and comfortable place is best for recitation and understanding the deep meanings of the Quran.
4.Qibla direction:
Scholars suggest that the appropriate direction while recitation is the Qibla direction. So, sitting down in the direction of Qiblah means your face is towards Qibla and then recite.
5.Start with Tuaz and Tasmia:
Start words from the heavens with the name of Allah. Start recitation with Tauz and Tasmia. Recite Tauz first "AUDHUBILLAH MIN AL SHAITAN NIRAJEEM"
Translation: I seek refuge in Allah from the outcast Shaitan. After Tauz, recite Tasmia.
Bismilla hirrahma nirrahim
Translation: "In the name of Allah, Most Gracious and the Most Merciful"
6.Beautify your recitation:
The presence of the Word of Allah in the Arabic language raised the status of Arabic as a language. At the same time, you can make your recitation more beautiful with your voice. Allah bestowed a different voice to everyone. You should read Quran in the best version of your voice. Holy Prophet (PBUH) said:
"Beautify the Quran with your voices." (Abu Dawud:1468)
Another Hadith narrates that
" Verily the one who recites the Quran beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have twice the reward."
7.Fulfill rights of Quran:
While recitation, you should fulfill some of your duties towards the Quran. For instance, when there is a verse of Sajdah, then prostrate in front of him. There are a few verses called verses of Sajdah in the Quran. You can prostrate immediately or later. You should take care of pauses, marks, and other requirements while reading the Quran. Tajweed can be a better guide for you in this respect. It is a complete guide on how to pronounce Quranic verses.
8.Slow pace and avoid distractions:
Read Quran slowly. Your pace can benefit you in a way to understand the Holy book deeply. Avoid distractions. i.e., do not discuss worldly matters while reading Quran. You can pause if necessary, to perform some task that needs your attention first. Avoid laughing and conservations etc. while reciting the Quran.
9.Your reaction towards verses:
Quran is for you. Allah has described all the orders for your understanding. If you read a verse about the reward of performing good actions then stop and ask Him it. If a verse explains the intensity of punishments of evil actions then ask His refuge. It is the best way to show respect and love towards Quran and to connect to Allah while reading His Holy book.
10.Read less portion:
Holy Prophet (PBUH) suggested His companions take at least three days for one complete reading. Islam does not separate religion from worldly matters and teaches you to perform all other tasks besides worship of Allah. It is better to invest your time in understanding the commands of Allah rather than just simple recitation. Simple recitation has its reward but at the same time, understanding and implementation of Quranic principles will make your life a paradise.
11.Etiquettes of listening recitation:
Most of the time, people follow all the directions of recitation. But they do not have any knowledge about how to listen Quran. When someone is reciting Quran near you or someone reciting in a visual or audial recording, you should make sure complete silence, a manner of respect of Quran. Hear recitation and let it soften your heart.
12.How to end your recitation?
It was the will of Allah that He allowed you to read the Holy text. Say "Sadaqa Allahu Aaleyul Azeem" after completing recitation. Show your regards to Allah and ask Him to make you read it again and again.
My Muslim brother and Sisters, please develop a habit of reading the Quran. We must learn Quran and its teachings. If you are looking for a Scholar to teach Quran to your child, you are at the best platform. Click here to register online for learning Quran online and with 10 free classes.