When a loved one passes away, Muslims naturally seek ways to benefit them in the afterlife. One question that arises frequently is whether reciting the Quran for the deceased brings them reward.
The question matters to many Muslims because it reflects a universal human desire to continue showing love and care for family members and friends even after death.
Table of Contents
Islamic Perspective on Reciting Quran for the Dead
Scholars have long discussed whether the reward of Quran recitation can be gifted to the deceased. Some classical scholars, especially from the Hanafi and Hanbali schools, allow this practice. They believe that just as charity and Hajj can benefit the dead, the reward of Quran recitation can also reach them by Allah’s permission.
On the other hand, many scholars from the Maliki and Shafi‘i schools were more cautious. Their view is based on the fact that there is no clear evidence that the Prophet ﷺ or his companions regularly recited Quran specifically for the dead. They emphasize that acts of worship should be based on clear examples from the Sunnah. However, they strongly agree that making du‘a for the deceased is always beneficial and recommended.
Evidence from Quran and Hadith for Reciting Quran for the Dead
We sheds light on what the Quran and Sunnah teach about responsibility after death and how the living can benefit those who have passed away. It also explains why the topic of reciting Quran for the dead remains a matter of scholarly discussion.
1. Relevant Verses from the Quran
The Quran teaches that every person is responsible for their own deeds:
“And that there is not for man except that for which he strives” (Quran 53:39).
This verse shows that each person’s reward is based on their own actions. However, the Quran also confirms the importance of supplication for others, including the deceased. Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) prayed:
“Our Lord, forgive me, my parents, and the believers” (Quran 14:41).
This shows that praying for the dead is clearly supported in the Quran.
2. Authentic Hadiths Related to Benefiting the Deceased
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“When a person dies, his deeds end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him” (Muslim).
This hadith confirms that du‘a and charity continue to benefit a person after death. Another hadith also encourages praying for the deceased and asking forgiveness for them.
However, there is no authentic hadith that clearly shows the Prophet ﷺ reciting the Quran specifically to gift its reward to a deceased person. This is why scholars differ on this issue.
a href=”https://riwaqalquran.com/courses/islamic-studies-for-kids/”>
Actions That Benefit the Dead According to Islam
Based on authentic evidence from the Quran and Sunnah, several actions are universally recognized as benefiting the deceased. These practices are explicitly supported in Islamic texts and are the most reliable ways to help loved ones in the afterlife.
1. Du‘a (Supplication)
Making du‘a for the deceased is perhaps the most powerful and widely accepted way to benefit them. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ regularly prayed for the deceased and encouraged believers to do the same. Du‘a can be made at the grave and anyother time.
Sincerity matters more than eloquence, and these prayers bring immense benefit to loved ones in the hereafter.
2. Sadaqah Jariyah (Ongoing Charity)
Sadaqah is an important action for charity given on behalf of the deceased is explicitly mentioned in hadiths as beneficial. Ongoing charity includes actions that continue to help others over time, such as:
- Building water wells or mosques
- Establishing educational institutions
- Publishing beneficial books
Regular charity, giving money, food, or assistance to the needy, also benefits the deceased if done with the intention of gifting the reward. Acts of service like volunteering at hospitals or helping orphans fall under this category. Both the giver and the deceased gain reward from such deeds.
Read Also: Can I Read the Quran During Sunrise and Zawal Time?
3. Paying Off Their Debts
Clearing any debts left behind by the deceased is highly recommended in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized the importance of settling debts, and fulfilling them on their behalf brings peace and relief in the afterlife.
4. Completing Obligatory Acts
Relatives can perform unfulfilled religious duties for the deceased, such as missed fasts or Hajj. Authentic hadiths permit completing these obligations, allowing the deceased to receive the reward they missed.
Read Also: When Not To Recite The Quran? Forbidden Time To Read Or Recite The Quran
Why Students Love Learning with Riwaq Al Quran
Hear directly from our students about how Riwaq Al Quran Academy has transformed their connection with the Book of Allah. Their experiences reflect the dedication, care, and quality that guide every step of our teaching.
Enhance Your Quran Learning Journey with Riwaq Al-Quran!
While seeking ways to benefit our deceased loved ones is noble, the best gift we can give them is to live righteously ourselves. Understanding and implementing the teachings of the Quran in our daily lives honors those who have passed and prepares us for our own meeting with Allah.
Riwaq Al-Quran offers comprehensive online Quran courses designed to deepen your understanding and strengthen your connection with the Holy Quran. Whether you’re looking to improve your recitation, memorize verses, or understand the meanings and tafsir, our experienced teachers provide personalized instruction tailored to your level.
Our courses include:
- Quran recitation with proper tajweed
- Quran memorization programs
- Quran Tafseer
- Islamic studies for all ages
Start your journey today with Riwaq Al-Quran and build a legacy of knowledge and faith that extends beyond this life.
a href=”https://riwaqalquran.com/courses/islamic-studies-for-kids/”>
Conclusion
The question of whether you can recite Quran for the dead reflects a beautiful aspect of Islamic faith: the desire to benefit our loved ones even after they’ve departed. While scholars differ on whether the reward of Quran recitation automatically transfers to the deceased, there is unanimous agreement on several points.
First, making sincere du’a (supplication) for the deceased is undoubtedly beneficial and highly encouraged. Second, giving charity on their behalf brings them reward and is explicitly mentioned in authentic Islamic texts. Third, becoming a righteous person yourself who makes regular du’a for your parents and loved ones is among the most powerful ways to benefit them.
Rather than focusing on areas of scholarly disagreement, Muslims are best served by concentrating on actions that have clear evidence and unanimous acceptance. Pray for your deceased loved ones regularly, give charity in their name, fulfill any obligations they left behind, and live a life that would make them proud.
May Allah grant all our deceased loved ones forgiveness, mercy, and the highest levels of Paradise. Ameen.
