Etiquettes of Reading the Quran

 

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, is regarded as the direct word of Allah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) through Angel Jibreel (Gabriel).

Its recitation is considered an act of worship and a source of guidance, healing, and mercy for humankind.

Due to its sacred nature, there are specific etiquettes (آداب) that Muslims should observe when engaging with the Quran, ensuring its reading is performed with reverence and in accordance with Islamic teachings.

This blog post outlines the etiquettes of reading the Quran with references from both the Quran and Hadith, presented in English and Arabic for authenticity and better understanding.

Sincerity and Intentions (الإخلاص والنية)

 

The first and foremost etiquette of reading the Quran is to approach it with sincerity (إخلاص) and a pure intention (نية). One must read the Quran seeking Allah’s pleasure, guidance, and blessings, not for worldly gains or showing off.

Allah says in the Quran:

وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاءَ
“And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth.” (Surah Al-Bayyinah, 98:5)

Ritual Purity (الطهارة)

 

Before touching or reciting the Quran, one must be in a state of ritual purity. This includes performing ablution (وضوء) if one plans to touch the Mushaf (physical copy of the Quran).

Allah says:
لَا يَمَسُّهُ إِلَّا الْمُطَهَّرُونَ
“None touch it except the purified.” (Surah Al-Waqi’ah, 56:79)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) instructed:

لَا تَمَسُّ الْقُرْآنَ إِلَّا وَأَنْتَ طَاهِرٌ
“Do not touch the Quran except when you are in a state of purity.” (Sunan Al-Daraqutni, 1:120)

For women experiencing menstruation or postpartum bleeding, opinions vary, but many scholars suggest they refrain from direct contact with the Mushaf.

Cleanliness and Environment (النظافة والمكان)

 

One should choose a clean and quiet place when reading the Quran. It helps maintain focus and respect for the sacred words.

The Quran states:

وَثِيَابَكَ فَطَهِّرْ
“And purify your garments.” (Surah Al-Muddathir, 74:4)

Imam Al-Ghazali in “Ihya Ulum Al-Din” emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and orderliness when engaging with the Quran, reflecting an inner state of reverence.

Sitting Posture (كيفية الجلوس)

 

When reciting the Quran, the posture of the reader plays a significant role in demonstrating respect and humility before the words of Allah. While Islam does not impose strict rules regarding posture, it encourages sitting respectfully, as an expression of reverence for the sacred scripture.

It is preferable to sit in a calm, attentive posture, such as cross-legged or kneeling, ensuring that the body reflects focus and respect. Lying down or adopting casual, inattentive positions should generally be avoided unless circumstances such as illness or fatigue necessitate them.

Allah says in the Quran:

يَتْلُونَ آيَاتِ اللَّهِ قِيَامًا وَقُعُودًا وَعَلَىٰ جُنُوبِهِمْ
“They recite the verses of Allah while standing or sitting or lying on their sides.” (Surah Aal-E-Imran, 3:191)

This verse indicates the flexibility allowed in postures while underscoring the need for mindfulness and devotion during recitation.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) exemplified dignity and attentiveness in all acts of worship. While specific hadiths about sitting posture during Quran recitation are limited, his general manner of respect and focus in all acts of devotion serves as a guiding principle for Muslims.

In summary, adopting a respectful sitting posture enhances the spiritual connection and reflects the reverence due to the Quran.

Beginning with Seeking Refuge and Saying Bismillah (الإستعاذة والبسملة)

 

Before reciting, it is essential to seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan and say “Bismillah.”

قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ النَّاسِ
“Say, ‘I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind.'” (Surah An-Nas, 114:1)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught:

إِذَا قَرَأْتَ الْقُرْآنَ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ
“When you recite the Quran, seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Shaytan.” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:98)

Etiquettes of reading the Quran

Reciting Slowly and Clearly (الترتيل والتجويد)

 

The Quran should be recited with Tarteel (measured tones) and Tajweed (proper pronunciation), as it allows for better understanding and reflection.

Allah commands:

وَرَتِّلِ الْقُرْآنَ تَرْتِيلًا
“And recite the Quran with measured recitation.” (Surah Al-Muzzammil, 73:4)

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

زَيِّنُوا الْقُرْآنَ بِأَصْوَاتِكُمْ
“Beautify the Quran with your voices.” (Sunan Abi Dawood, 1468)

Reflecting Upon Its Meanings (التدبر في المعاني)

 

Reading the Quran is not merely a vocal exercise; one should strive to understand and reflect on its meanings.

Allah says:

أَفَلَا يَتَدَبَّرُونَ الْقُرْآنَ أَمْ عَلَىٰ قُلُوبٍ أَقْفَالُهَا
“Then do they not reflect upon the Quran, or are there locks upon their hearts?” (Surah Muhammad, 47:24)

Ibn Kathir explains that this verse encourages pondering over the verses to derive guidance.

Maintaining Humility and Tears (الخضوع والبكاء)

 

When reading verses about Allah’s mercy, paradise, or punishment, it is encouraged to feel emotionally moved and shed tears if possible.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

اقْرَءُوا الْقُرْآنَ وَابْكُوا
“Recite the Quran and weep.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, 1337)

Avoiding Distractions (تجنب الانشغال)

 

Reciting the Quran demands full attention and focus, as it is not just an act of worship but a means to connect with Allah and reflect on His words. Avoiding distractions ensures that one approaches the Quran with the reverence it deserves, allowing its message to penetrate the heart and mind. Engaging in other activities, such as talking, eating, or being in a noisy environment, diminishes the sanctity of recitation and reduces the impact of its guidance.

Allah emphasizes attentiveness in the Quran:

وَإِذَا قُرِئَ الْقُرْآنُ فَاسْتَمِعُوا لَهُ وَأَنْصِتُوا لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ
“And when the Quran is recited, listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy.” (Surah Al-A’raf, 7:204)

This verse highlights the importance of silence and focus when engaging with the Quran, whether reciting or listening.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) demonstrated complete dedication during acts of worship, including Quran recitation. Aisha (RA) described his manner:

كَانَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا قَرَأَ الْقُرْآنَ لَا يَتَشَاغَلُ بِشَيْءٍ آخَرَ
“When the Prophet recited the Quran, he would not occupy himself with anything else.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari in Adab Al-Mufrad)

By eliminating distractions, one can engage deeply with the Quran, enhancing understanding, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Respecting the Mushaf (احترام المصحف)

 

The physical Quran must be handled respectfully:

  • Do not place it on the floor.
  • Store it in a clean, elevated place.
  • Avoid placing other items on top of it.

The companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) would handle the Quran with immense reverence.

Consistency in Recitation (الدوام على القراءة)

 

Regular engagement with the Quran is highly encouraged, even if in small portions.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

خَيْرُ الْأَعْمَالِ أَدْوَمُهَا وَإِنْ قَلَّ
“The best deeds are those done consistently, even if they are small.” (Sahih Bukhari, 6464)

Listening to the Quran (الاستماع للقرآن)

 

When the Quran is being recited, it is obligatory to listen attentively and remain silent.

Allah commands:

وَإِذَا قُرِئَ الْقُرْآنُ فَاسْتَمِعُوا لَهُ وَأَنْصِتُوا لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ
“And when the Quran is recited, listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy.” (Surah Al-A’raf, 7:204)

 Avoiding Recitation in Impure Places (تجنب الأماكن النجسة)

 

The Quran is the word of Allah and holds a sacred status in Islam. As such, reciting it in impure or inappropriate places, such as bathrooms, areas of filth, or locations lacking sanctity, is discouraged. These places are unsuitable for engaging with the Quran’s divine message due to their impurity and lack of reverence.

Allah commands believers to uphold cleanliness and purity:

وَثِيَابَكَ فَطَهِّرْ
“And purify your garments.” (Surah Al-Muddathir, 74:4)

This verse underscores the importance of physical and spiritual cleanliness, which extends to the environment where acts of worship, such as Quran recitation, are performed.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

إِنَّمَا بُعِثْتُ لِأُتَمِّمَ مَكَارِمَ الْأَخْلَاقِ
“Indeed, I was sent to perfect noble character.” (Musnad Ahmad, 8952)

One aspect of noble character is treating the Quran with utmost respect, including choosing appropriate places for its recitation.

Islam allows flexibility in recitation for those who are traveling or ill. However, out of respect, places of impurity or where concentration is impossible should be avoided. By selecting a clean and tranquil location, one ensures the proper reverence for Allah’s words and fosters a deeper spiritual connection.

Teaching and Sharing (تعليم القرآن)

 

Teaching and spreading the knowledge of the Quran is among the noblest acts.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

خَيْرُكُمْ مَنْ تَعَلَّمَ الْقُرْآنَ وَعَلَّمَهُ
“The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.” (Sahih Bukhari, 5027)

Ending with a Dua (الدعاء بعد التلاوة)

 

Concluding the recitation of the Quran with a heartfelt dua (supplication) is a practice deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. The Quran is not only a guide for humanity but also a means of connecting with Allah through its recitation, reflection, and application. Ending with a dua signifies gratitude for being blessed with the Quran and invokes Allah’s mercy, guidance, and blessings.

Allah encourages turning to Him in supplication:

وَقَالَ رَبُّكُمُ ادْعُونِي أَسْتَجِبْ لَكُمْ
“And your Lord says, ‘Call upon Me; I will respond to you.'” (Surah Ghafir, 40:60)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized the power of dua, especially after acts of worship. He would often conclude recitation with supplications for forgiveness and blessings. For instance, when completing the Quran, he made a comprehensive dua, thanking Allah and asking for His mercy and guidance.

Ibn Abbas (RA) reported:

كَانَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا خَتَمَ الْقُرْآنَ جَمَعَ أَهْلَهُ وَدَعَا
“When the Prophet (ﷺ) completed the Quran, he would gather his family and supplicate.” (Ad-Darimi, 3471)

Ending with a dua is an act of humility, acknowledging that ultimate guidance and success come only from Allah. It transforms the recitation into a comprehensive act of worship, leaving the reader spiritually enriched.

Conclusion

 

The Quran is a divine gift and the ultimate source of guidance, mercy, and blessings for humanity. Approaching it with the proper etiquettes not only enhances the recitation experience but also deepens one’s connection with Allah. Every act associated with the Quran, whether reciting, listening, or reflecting, should be done with sincerity, reverence, and adherence to the principles laid down by Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ).

Allah describes the Quran as:

هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ
“A guidance for the righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:2)

This verse emphasizes the transformative power of the Quran when engaged with respect and understanding.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also highlighted the importance of the Quran, saying:

اقْرَؤُوا الْقُرْآنَ فَإِنَّهُ يَأْتِي شَفِيعًا لِأَصْحَابِهِ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ
“Recite the Quran, for it will come as an intercessor for its companions on the Day of Resurrection.” (Sahih Muslim, 804)

By observing Etiquettes of reading the Quran such as maintaining purity, sitting respectfully, avoiding distractions, and reflecting on its meanings, believers can honor the sanctity of the Quran.

May we be among those who not only recite the Quran but also understand, act upon, and teach its guidance to others, thereby earning Allah’s pleasure and ultimate success in this life and the Hereafter. Ameen.

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Internal Resources and Services

 

  • To deepen your understanding of why the Quran holds such significance in a believer’s life, explore our comprehensive guide on benefits of reciting the quran daily.
  • Maintaining ritual purity through Wudu is essential before reciting the Quran. Read our step-by-step guide on How to Perform Wudu.
  • Reflecting on the Quran is a powerful act of worship that brings countless spiritual benefits. Learn more about it in our article on Benefits of Reflecting on the Quran.

External Resources

 

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