To be knowledgeable and grasp the theme and message an author conveys through his book is the total some the art of reading. One can achieve nothing if reading a book a book has not added to one's prior knowledge and vocabulary.
Reading, thus, helps expand vocabulary and knowledge and improving the communication abilities, much needed to gain someone's trust, enter into a useful and meaningful discussion backed by one's knowledge so gained by reading books on diverse subjects. Laced with good knowledge and vocabulary on a particular subject, one gains confidence and earn a respectable place of standing.
To understand the content, one has to be an active reader. Active reading engages the brain and forces it to answer questions and make connections - which facilitates understanding. Active reading means taking notes on the facts.
We therefore spend much time in reading our text books and professional books and even engage some learned friend, a mentor or a scholar to understand the intricate themes and subject matter. If reading and understanding of our text books so important to us, then why do we relegate Qur'an, laced with Divine wisdom, to mere reading, rather hurrying it attend to our text or business books. Even we spend more time in reading fiction, enjoying the verbosity of the writers and fancying things to add to our leisure.
But reading Qur'an is sufficient? Books of famous thinkers (in any language) may be read by many but, in reality, are understood by very few, then what to say of the Qur’an whose author is Allah, possessing infinite knowledge and wisdom? We have millions of Muslims around the world who have memorized the Qur'an, even when Arabic is not their mother tongue. But do they have also understood the Divine wisdom contained in Qur'an?
With this premise in background, let us try to understand the significance of reading and understanding of Qur'an. Reading and understanding the Qur'an is of immense significance in Islam. It is not only the Divine scripture for us Muslims but also a comprehensive guide for leading a life aligned with the will of Allah. even many a non Muslims are finding it very useful to read and understand Qur'an, some even taking years trying to find answers to their misfed queries and finally embracing Islam.
Let us carryout an in-depth explanation of its importance:
Direct Revelation from Allah
- The Qur'an is the literal word of Allah, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the angel Jibril (Gabriel). It is considered the ultimate source of guidance for all humanity, containing timeless wisdom for personal, social, and spiritual life.
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2) says: "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah."
- Understanding the Qur'an is essential to grasp the direct words and commands of Allah, and to apply them in one’s life.
Source of Guidance and Wisdom
- The Qur'an provides guidance on every aspect of life, including matters of faith, ethics, laws, relationships, and social justice. It addresses both the worldly life and the Hereafter.
- Surah Al-Isra (17:9) states: "Indeed, this Qur'an guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward."
- By understanding the Qur'an, one gains insight into Allah’s wisdom and finds clarity on how to live in a way that pleases Him.
Increased Connection with Allah
- The Qur'an is a means of building a closer relationship with Allah. Reading and reflecting on its verses helps Muslims strengthen their faith (iman) and consciousness of Allah (taqwa).
- Surah Al-Anfal (8:2) mentions: "The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts become fearful, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord they rely."
- Understanding the Qur'an deepens one's spiritual awareness and connection to Allah.
Guidance for the Hereafter
- The Qur'an teaches the reality of life, death, the Day of Judgment, and the Hereafter. It provides essential guidance on how to live a righteous life that leads to eternal success.
- Surah Al-Mulk (67:2) mentions: "He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed."
- Understanding these realities shapes one’s worldview, leading to actions that align with Allah’s guidance, ensuring success in both this world and the next.
Protection from Misguidance
- The Qur'an is a shield against misguidance and error. By reading and comprehending its messages, a believer is equipped to distinguish between truth and falsehood.
- Surah Al-Furqan (25:1) calls the Qur'an the "Criterion": "Blessed is He who sent down the Criterion upon His Servant that he may be a warner to the worlds."
- A deep understanding of the Qur'an helps protect against confusion, cultural distortions, and ideological deviations.
Moral and Ethical Framework
- The Qur'an provides a moral framework that emphasizes justice, compassion, honesty, and kindness. By understanding its verses, believers are guided to act with integrity and uphold Islamic ethical values.
- Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13) emphasizes equality and righteousness: "Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you."
- The Qur'an guides a person to live a life rooted in justice and righteousness.
Source of Peace and Tranquility
- Reading and understanding the Qur'an brings immense peace to the heart. It provides solutions to life's challenges and assures believers of Allah's mercy and assistance.
- Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28) says: "Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest."
- Reflecting on the Qur'an's meanings provides comfort in times of difficulty and helps one navigate through trials with patience and faith.
Fulfillment of the Obligation of Knowledge
- Seeking knowledge is a fundamental duty in Islam. Understanding the Qur'an is part of fulfilling this obligation, as it is the primary source of Islamic knowledge.
- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah)
- Gaining knowledge of the Qur'an ensures that a believer has the tools necessary to live a meaningful, purposeful life in accordance with Allah’s commands.
The Emphasis of reading and Understanding Qur'an by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The Qur'an was the central focus of the Prophet Muhammad’s life and mission. He not only recited it but also explained and demonstrated its meanings through his actions and sayings (Hadith).
Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her), the revered wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has been quoted as saying that Character of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was the Qur'an.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ placed great emphasis on reading, understanding, and reflecting on the Qur'an. As the final messenger of Allah and the one to whom the Qur'an was revealed, the Prophet set a personal example for his followers in how they should approach and engage with the divine message. His teachings, actions, and statements highlight the importance of not only reciting the Qur'an but also comprehending its meanings and applying them in daily life.
Here are some ways in which the Prophet emphasized the significance of reading and understanding the Qur'an:
- Earning Rewards from Allah:
- Reciting the Qur'an carries immense spiritual reward.
- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one good deed as ten good deeds like it. I do not say that ‘Alif-Lam-Meem’ is a letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter." (Tirmidhi)
- While reciting the Qur'an is virtuous, understanding it brings greater rewards because it allows the reader to implement its teachings in daily life.
- Encouragement to Read the Qur'an Regularly
- The Prophet strongly encouraged Muslims to regularly recite the Qur'an and make it a central part of their lives. He often spoke about the spiritual rewards of reciting the Qur'an and how it strengthens one’s connection to Allah.
- Hadith on Rewards of Recitation: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one good deed as ten good deeds like it. I do not say that ‘Alif-Lam-Meem’ is a letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.” (Tirmidhi)
- This hadith highlights the immense rewards of even a single letter of Qur'an recitation, showing the Prophet's emphasis on its recitation.
- Understanding and Reflecting on the Qur'an
- The Prophet didn’t just stress reciting the Qur'an; he encouraged Muslims to reflect on its meanings and understand its guidance.
- Hadith on Reflection: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- This hadith emphasizes that the true benefit of the Qur'an comes from learning and teaching it, which includes understanding its meanings, wisdom, and applying its teachings.
- Hadith on Reflection on Verses: In another narration, the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: “There is no envy (acceptable) except in two cases: a person whom Allah has given the Qur'an and recites it throughout the night and day, and a person whom Allah has given wealth, and he spends it throughout the night and day.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- This indicates that understanding and implementing the Qur'an in one's life is a blessing to aspire toward. It is not just the recitation but also the constant engagement with its teachings that the Prophet highlighted.
- Practical Application of the Qur'an
- The Prophet Muhammad himself was the living embodiment of the Qur'an. His actions were a reflection of the Qur'anic teachings, and he consistently applied its principles in every aspect of his life.
- Hadith of Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her): When Aishah, the wife of the Prophet, was asked about the character of the Prophet, she replied: "His character was the Qur'an." (Sahih Muslim)
- This means that the Prophet lived by the teachings of the Qur'an, illustrating its values through his behavior. Understanding the Qur'an is meant to lead to action, and the Prophet modeled this perfectly.
- Tajweed (Proper Recitation) and Memorization
- The Prophet also encouraged the proper recitation (tajweed) and memorization of the Qur'an, as it helps preserve the text and ensures its correct delivery and understanding.
- Hadith on Beautifying Recitation: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Adorn the Qur'an with your voices.” (Abu Dawood)
- He emphasized reciting the Qur'an correctly and beautifully, which facilitates a deeper connection with its meanings.
- Hadith on Memorization: He also said: "It will be said to the companion of the Qur'an (on the Day of Resurrection): Recite and ascend, and recite as you used to recite in the world, for your rank will be at the last verse you recite." (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)
- This indicates the importance of memorizing the Qur'an, understanding its verses, and consistently reciting it throughout one’s life.
- Warning Against Neglecting the Qur'an
- The Prophet also warned against neglecting the Qur'an, whether by not reading it, not understanding it, or not applying its teachings.
- Hadith on Qur'an being a Proof: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The Qur'an is a proof for you or against you." (Sahih Muslim)
- This indicates that the Qur'an will either intercede on behalf of those who read, understand, and follow its guidance or it will testify against those who neglected or rejected it.
- Teaching Qur'an to Others
- The Prophet not only taught his companions the Qur'an but encouraged them to spread its knowledge. Teaching the Qur'an involves more than just sharing its words; it requires explaining its meanings and helping others apply its teachings.
- Hadith on Teaching the Qur'an: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- Teaching the Qur'an ensures that its understanding is passed on, and this was a key focus of the Prophet’s mission.
- The Qur'an as a Source of Intercession
- The Prophet emphasized that the Qur'an will intercede on behalf of those who read and understand it on the Day of Judgment.
- Hadith on Intercession: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Recite the Qur'an, for it will come as an intercessor for its people on the Day of Resurrection." (Sahih Muslim)
- Understanding the Qur'an helps one live according to its teachings, leading to rewards in the Hereafter and intercession on the Day of Judgment.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the reading, understanding, and application of the Qur'an throughout his life. He encouraged Muslims to recite it regularly, reflect deeply on its meanings, live by its teachings, and teach it to others. He warned against neglecting the Qur'an and highlighted its role as a source of guidance, mercy, and intercession. By following the Prophet’s example and teachings, Muslims are encouraged to make the Qur'an a central part of their lives, not just in recitation, but in comprehension and practice.
You may like to listen to eminent Muslim scholar, linguist and preacher Nouman Ali Khan explain the importance of reading Qur'an with understanding:
In view of the above explanation both from Qur'an and Sunnah/Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and very informative lecture by Nouman Ali Khan, it should be well understood that reading and understanding the Qur'an is essential for every Muslim. It serves as a divine guide for every aspect of life, strengthens the connection with Allah, shapes moral character, and provides a clear pathway to success in both this world and the Hereafter. The Qur'an’s timeless message remains relevant for all humanity, offering solutions to individual and societal problems, and leading to a life of peace, righteousness, and fulfillment.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.
May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.
Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.
Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.
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