Reading the Quran: A Spiritual Journey with Rules and Respect

Rules for reading the Quran, reading on mobile devices, Tajweed, Talaffuz, reading is mandatory

The Quran is the holy book of Muslims. Reciting the Quran is highly respected as well as a sacred practice in Islam. There is a set of etiquettes and rules that a Muslim should follow while reading the Quran to show devotion and high esteem. Some of the basic rules of reading the Quran are given below:

Taharah (purity) or ritual cleanliness

While reading the Quran the most essential thing is to be in a state of taharah (ritual purity). This means to take ablution (wudu) before reading the Quran. But after janabah (major impurity), a person must take a ghusl (full bath) before even touching the Quran.

Tajweed (correct pronunciation)

If he/she is reading the book of Allah in Arabic, it is essential to pronounce all the words in the best manner. The rules of reading the Quran are collectively known as tajweed. Following the rules of tajweed can help you maintain proper rhythm and appropriate pronunciation. 

High esteem and respect

Muslims should approach the Quran with great respect in their hearts. Quran should not be dealt with like any other book as it is the word of Allah. Another essential thing is to recite “Bismillah” (in the name of Allah) before starting to read the Quran. 

Clean environment

Before starting the recitation of the Quran one must make sure that the area is clean and it must be free of all impurities. As the Quran is a sacred book, it is prohibited to put this sacred book in disrespectful places. 

Appropriate dress

Another important rule for reading the Quran is to dress modestly while reciting. 

Avoid drinking and eating

Observing the sacredness of this divine text many Muslim scholars consider the act of eating and drinking as an act of disrespect while reading the Quran.

Presence of mind and focus

One must read attentively which means the presence of the mind is also very important. Avoid distractions and focus, if a person truly wants spiritual rejuvenation.

Recitation with reverence

It is also prohibited to rush through the verses this is again an act of disrespect according to scholars. Even while reading in aloud tone, we should recite with humility and reverence.

Handling the Quran

Another significant rule is to handle the Quran with proper care. It is prohibited to touch this sacred book with dirty hands. Also, it is not allowed to use this sacred for purposes other than recitation and reading. 

Contemplation on the verses

Besides reciting the Quran daily another very important aspect is to contemplate the verses of the Quran to understand the true message which is the essence of this book. After developing a true understanding one should apply this knowledge in every aspect of their lives.

Listening attentively

This is also essential to listen to the recitation of the Quran when somebody else is reciting. Muslims should make sure to show respect and listen attentively instead of interrupting. 

Consistency

Muslims should make a routine of reading the Quran daily. Even if it’s a few verses, consistency is the key. According to Muslim scholars, consistency is highly appreciated in the practice of reciting and reading the Quran.

Guidance

A person must approach the Quran with the true intention of gaining wisdom, guidance, and spiritual growth.  

Recitation in prayer

Surahs must be recited in the prescribed order while reciting them during the prayer. It must be done with reverence and correct pronunciation.

Reading the Quran on a mobile phone

The permissibility of reading and reciting the Quran on the mobile phone actually vary among different school of thought and is perceived differently by scholars. However, generally, it is accepted by the Muslim community around the globe. The essential thing is to follow the basic rules and etiquette under all circumstances to maintain the esteem and respect of this holy book. Some of the key considerations include:

Quranic app

There are so many dedicated apps out there that serve features like translation, recitation, and transliteration. Such important features can enhance the experience of Quranic reading on your device. One must be very decisive and choosy especially when it comes to reading this sacred book from mobile devices.

In-appropriate apps

It is very important to avoid the use of all the inappropriate apps, from the same device when you are using it for recitation of the Quran. This is because of the sanctity of this holy book.  

Prohibition of multi-tasking

A person must avoid using the phone for other tasks while reading the Quran, to fully observe the reverence of this sacred text. Just to maintain the focus.

Avoid distractions

Make sure to minimize the distractions before starting the Quran recitation on your mobile phone. 

Device must be properly cleansed

A mobile device that is being used for the recitation of the Quran must be properly cleansed from the impurities before opening the Quran into it. 

Tajweed

Before using any application ensure that the text written in Arabic is correct and free of all kinds of mistakes, be cautious because it can lead you towards too many mistakes related to pronunciation of Arabic words. 

Is reading the Quran mandatory?

In Islam reading Quran is highly appreciated as it is a spiritually rewarding act. It is important for every Muslim to be consistent in their relationship with this sacred book. However, when it comes to the obligation of reading the Quran it depends on the personal capacity of a believer and his/her circumstances as well. Recitation is considered as an act of spiritual growth but Muslims are acknowledged to read it with their own speed and level of convenience. Recitation or reading of the Quran can be done individually and also in group settings.

Final Word

The most important thing is the rules of reading the Quran are not the same in various Islamic traditions. Different schools of thought have different opinions related to the rules of recitation. That is why it is appreciated to consult with a religious authority or some knowledgeable Muslim scholar within your specific sect or tradition for proper guidance, to avoid misconceptions and mistakes in reading practices of the Quran.