Ten Things To Keep In Mind While Reading The Holy Quran

Holy Quran is last and final of all the Holy books that were revealed over different Prophets. It was revealed on the heart of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) in 609 A.D by Angel Gabriel after which the never ending journey of Islam began.
The followers of the last and final scripture are called Muslims. None the less, it has teaching for all mankind. Not only Muslims but also Non-Muslims have been seeking guidance from the Holy Quran.
This is so because the last of all the Holy Scriptures is not entirely about worship but is somewhat of a guide book to the human body and the ways to interact with other humans or even animals.
However, there are rules and regulations for reading Holy Quran which are often forgotten. Therefore, let us revisit the guidelines which we are to keep in mind and practice when reading Quran.

• Being in the state of cleanliness:
• Beginning the recitation with Ta’awwudh:
• Slow recitation:
• Accurate pronunciation
• Beautifying recitation
• Isolating yourself during recitation
• Pondering on verses
• Memorizing and practicing of Quran
• Handling of Quran
• Recitation of Quran on daily basis

1. Being in the state of cleanliness:

The first and foremost obligatory practice that is ordered to be carried out is cleaning oneself before touching or reciting the Holy Quran. One has to remain clean throughout the period of reading Quran.
The condition of hygiene standardized for the recitation of Holy Quran consists of a major ablution called Ghusl and a minor ablution called Wudu. The mentioned ablution however must be carried out by doing Ghusl followed by Wudu respectively.

2. Beginning the recitation with Ta’awwudh:

Ta’awwudh is seeking protection in Allah from shaitan and is done so by reciting

"A`ūdhu billāhi min ash-shaitāni r-rajīmi”

which is translated as

“I look for protection in Allah from shaitan, the accused one”

after which “Tasmiya” which is

“b-ismi-llāhi r-raḥmāni r-raḥīmi”. Tasmiya is translated as “In the name of Allah who is most gracious, the most Merciful”.

Ta’awwudh is necessary so that Shaitan does not deviate us from the path of light.

3. Slow recitation:

The verses of Quran were revealed to the humankind slowly and gradually. This was done so that people could get better understanding of the teachings of Quran.
Likewise, the Quran is to be read slowly and peacefully so that the reader gets to comprehend the teachings of Islam in a better way.
The Quran says:

“And those who disbelieve say, “Why was the Qur’an not revealed to him all at once?” Thus [it is] that We may strengthen thereby your heart. And We have spaced it distinctly.” [Quran, 25: 32]

4. Accurate pronunciation

Quran has been revealed in Arabic which is a very complicated language. The slightest of change in pronunciation of an Arabic word gives rise to a completely different and out of context meaning.
Therefore, it is necessary that the reader is very cautious while pronouncing words of verses. It has to be ensured that the words are correctly pronounced.

“Or add to it, and recite the Qur’an with measured recitation.” [Quran, 73: 4]

5. Beautifying recitation

Quran is one of the biggest blessings bestowed upon Muslims. Hence, it is advised to be read in as beautiful tone as possible. After all, this would be portrayed as an act of valuing and cherishing the Holy Scripture.

“Allah has not permitted anything like He has permitted a Prophet to recite the Quran in a good voice.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

6. Isolating yourself during recitation

The verses of Quran hold very deep meaning. And, as mentioned before, the slightest of mistake in pronunciation leads to total change of meaning.
Hence, it is advised to cautiously and slowly. Also, isolating yourself during recitation helps you focus on the verses more clearly which enables you interpret meanings of verses more easily.

7. Pondering on verses

The verses of Quran have very deep meanings. Perhaps this justifies how only thirty chapters cover almost all topics regarding one’s life and orders sent from Allah Almighty.
Every time Quran is read by the reader in detail, the reader interprets a different meaning after correlating different events and incidents. Therefore, the reader must ponder on verses to understand the depths of Quran.

8. Memorizing and practicing of Quran

Solely reading and understanding of Quran does not put an end to its obligations. It has to memorized by heart after being completely understood as then the “Qari” will have the Quran and it’s orders in mind at all times which will help in practicing Quran in daily life more frequently.

9. Handling of Quran

Quran is not an ordinary book. It has been sent upon us by the Creator Himself. Therefore, it must be treated likewise.
It is hence compulsory that we handle Quran with great care, hold it with respect and affection and ensure that is not placed in a filthy place. It is to be placed at an elevated level in both the seating level and the heart of the Muslim.

10. Recitation of Quran on daily basis

Quran is a message from Allah to His Creation. Therefore, we should recite it and revise the teachings on daily basis. Not only will this help us gain Allah’s mercy and eternal reward, but it will also make us better human beings as a whole.
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