Reading the Quran in Arabic is essential for preserving its original meaning and linguistic beauty, as it was divinely revealed in that language. While translations can aid understanding, they don’t replace the spiritual and textual depth of the Arabic recitation, especially in acts of worship.
Let’s discuss it in more details:
Table of Contents
Is It Compulsory To Read The Quran In Arabic?
Yes, it is compulsory to read the Quran in Arabic. The Quran itself provides evidence for this requirement. Allah states, “We have sent it down as an Arabic Quran, so that ye may learn wisdom” (Yusuf 12:2).
This verse indicates that the Quran was purposely revealed in Arabic, to enable mankind to gain wisdom and understanding from its teachings.
While there are numerous translations available to assist those who do not know Arabic, these translations alone are insufficient to fully capture the beauty and precise meanings of the Quran.
Therefore, it is highly recommended that Muslims learn Arabic to comprehend the Quran in its original form and to recite it in the same manner as Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) did during his lifetime.
As Muslims are encouraged to read the Quran in Arabic as it is considered the original language in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). The importance of reciting the Quran in Arabic is emphasized in various verses, with Allah stating in Surah Fussilat (41:44).
For those who do not know Arabic, there is still merit in reading translations to comprehend the meanings of the Quran. While the full rewards are associated with reciting the Quran in Arabic, seeking knowledge and understanding the message in one’s native language is also commendable..
Dr. Nasr Farid Wasel, a former mufti of Egypt and member of the Islamic Research Academy at Al-Azhar, states that Muslims are commanded by Allah to recite the Quran by its prescribed rules.
This entails reciting it with complete submission to Allah, contemplating its meanings deeply, and adhering to the rules of its recitation. Allah Himself emphasizes this in the Quran: “And recite the Quran as it ought to be recited” (Al-Muzzammil 73:4).
Reading The Quran In Your Mother language
According to the Quran, the Quran doesn’t need to be in any language other than Arabic. Allah states in Surah Fussilat (41:44)
“And if We had made it a foreign [i.e., non-Arabic] Quran, they would have said, “Why are its verses not explained in detail [in our language]? Is it a foreign [recitation] and an Arab [messenger]?” Say, “It is, for those who believe, a guidance and cure.”
This verse emphasizes that the Quran being in Arabic is a divine decision, specifically designed to challenge non-believers and affirm the authenticity and superiority of the Quran.
While translations can help us understand the meanings of the Quran, they are still human interpretations and cannot substitute for the original Arabic text.
Therefore, reciting the Quran in Arabic is highly encouraged, especially during worship, as it is believed to hold special blessings and spiritual benefits for Muslims.
Do you get rewards for reading the Quran in Translation?
Yes, you will be rewarded for reading the Quran in translation. While there is no direct evidence from the Quran or Sunnah that specifically mentions the reward for reading the Quran in translation, there are general principles and hadiths that support the idea of gaining a reward for seeking knowledge and understanding the meaning of the Quran.
In the Quran, Allah commands us to fear Him and fulfill our duty to Him as much as we can (Surah Al-Taghabun, 64:16). By reading the Quran in translation, you are fulfilling your duty to seek knowledge and understanding of Allah’s message. This act of seeking knowledge and understanding is highly emphasized in Islam and is rewarded by Allah.
Additionally, a hadith narrated by Muawiya Bin Abu Sufyan states that the Prophet Muhammad said, “If Allah wants to do a favor to somebody, he bestows on him the gift of understanding the Quran and Sunnah” (Bukhari and Muslim). This hadith emphasizes the importance and reward of understanding the Quran, and reading it in translation is one way to gain this understanding.
Therefore, although the reward may not be the same as reading the Quran in Arabic, reading the Quran in translation to understand and benefit from its teachings is a commendable act that will be rewarded by Allah.
Why should a non-Arabic Muslim read the Quran?
Non-Arabic Muslims may encounter difficulties in comprehending the Arabic text of the Quran, but it is still crucial for them to engage with this sacred scripture because of its significance and numerous advantages. These are as follows:
1. Divine Guidance and Wisdom:
The Quran is considered the literal word of Allah, offering divine guidance and wisdom for all Muslims. By reading the Quran, non-Arabic Muslims can access this profound source of spiritual knowledge and understand the teachings that Allah has revealed for humanity.
2. Universal Relevance:
The Quran contains principles and teachings that apply to people of all backgrounds, regardless of their language or culture. Non-Arabic Muslims can benefit from the Quran’s universal messages of love, compassion, justice, and ethics, which can guide them in their personal and social lives.
3. Strengthening Faith:
Reading the Quran helps non-Arabic Muslims deepen their faith and enhance their relationship with Allah. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the meanings and lessons of the Quranic verses, fostering a stronger connection to Islam and reinforcing one’s beliefs.
4. Spiritual Nourishment:
The Quran serves as a source of spiritual nourishment for non-Arabic Muslims. Its recitation and contemplation bring about a sense of tranquility, peace, and inner fulfillment. Engaging with the Quran can uplift the soul, provide solace in challenging times, and ignite a sense of purpose and spirituality.
5. Direct understanding:
Arabic is the language in which the Quran was revealed, so learning Arabic allows us to directly understand the words of Allah without relying on translations or interpretations.
Arabic holds unique linguistic features that cannot be fully captured in other languages. By learning Arabic, we can delve deeper into the nuances, eloquence, and richness of the Quranic text, enabling us to grasp its profound meanings and wisdom.
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Learning the Noorani Qaida online at Riwaq Al Quran is a convenient and effective method for Muslims to improve their understanding of the Arabic language and develop their recitation skills for the Quran.
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Through interactive learning materials, students can practice reading and reciting verses from the Quran with correct pronunciation and intonation.
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Conclusion
The Quran was revealed in Arabic by divine wisdom, and its original language is emphasized in multiple verses of the Quran. Reciting it in Arabic preserves the sacredness, eloquence, and intended meanings of Allah’s message. While translations are beneficial for understanding, they are seen as human efforts to interpret the divine text and cannot fully convey its linguistic depth. Therefore, reciting the Quran in Arabic, especially during acts of worship, holds significant spiritual value and is highly encouraged among Muslims.
For non-Arabic speakers, reading the Quran in translation is still a meaningful act, helping them grasp its guidance, ethics, and spiritual teachings. Islam rewards the pursuit of knowledge, and understanding the Quran through any language is praiseworthy. However, learning Arabic enables a more intimate engagement with the divine message and enriches one’s connection to the text. Platforms like Riwaq Al Quran support this journey by offering structured online Arabic and Quran recitation programs tailored for learners around the world.
