Benefits of Reflecting Upon the Quran

Benefits of Reflecting Upon the Quran

In the name of Allāh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful;

All the praise and Thanks are due to Allāh, the Lord of the al-ā’lamīn. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allāh, and that Muhammad, sallallāhu alayhi wa sallam, is His Messenger.

Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala Says: “[This is] a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded.” [Surah Sad, 38: 29]

The Prophet  (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “Any group of people that assemble in one of the Houses of Allah to recite and study the Quran, tranquility will descend upon them, mercy will engulf them, angels will surround them and Allah will make mention of them to those (the angels) in His proximity.” [Muslim]

Reflecting upon the Quran is one of the reasons of its revelation; it is the way to comprehend its rulings and find out its objectives and meanings. The Quran will not be properly understood, nor will its objectives be truly realized except by pausing at each verse and giving it its due right of pondering to discover the meanings and wisdom within it.

All perfect praise is due to Allah, that we still see many Muslims reciting the Quran day and night, which is good, yet many of them recite it without the due reflection or understanding. Thus people miss the main reason for which the Quran was revealed, to apply its rules, adhere to its commands and refrain from its prohibitions.

In an attempt to practically apply the Words of Allah: “And remind, for indeed, the reminder benefits the believers.” [Surah Adh-Dhariyat, 51: 55]. We designate this article to address some important ways by which a person may ponder the Nobel Quran and thus properly understand it.

One such way is to be acquainted with the Arabic language and its methods of expression. The Quran was revealed in Arabic, and can only be understood according to the rules of this language, and all scholars attach great importance to learning the Arabic language and encourage their students to learn it. The one who does not know the rules of the language could easily misunderstand the following saying of Allah: “And ask the city in which we were and the caravan in which we came” [Surah Yusuf, 12: 82] and he will not be able to distinguish between the sayings of Allah: “It is You we worship and You we ask for help” [Surah Al-Fatihah, 1: 5] and the saying: “We worship You,” and so on.

It must be pointed out here is that not everyone who recites the Quran is asked to be a grammarian; rather, all he needs to obtain is enough knowledge and command on the language with which he can understand the Book of Allah and reflect upon it.

An important practice which can help a person reflect upon the Quran is to study the biography of the Prophet. We must know that he was the authentic interpreter of the Quran and that his manners were all derived from the Quran. We must also know that he was a practical Quran walking on earth, in the sense that he clarified to verses that were revealed in general terms and verses that may have sounded confusing. Knowing all this makes a Muslim realize that in order to properly be able to reflect upon the Quran, he must return to the biography of the Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, and the authentic Sunnah.

Knowing the historical context in which specific verses of the Quran were revealed increases the reader's understanding, because many verses were revealed pertaining to a certain incident.

Without knowing the reason for its revelation and what it came down to address, one could read a verse but not really understand what it intends. For example the following saying of Allah: “So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers. If a wound should touch you- there has already touched the [opposing] people a wound similar to it” [Surah Al-‘Imran, 139-140]. This saying was addressed to the companions, may Allah pleased with them, during the battle of Uhud in which they suffered causalities fighting the disbelieving enemies. They are being rallied to fight harder by Allah's reminder that they had already inflicted similar suffering upon these enemies during their previous battle of Badar.

One other helpful factor in reflecting on and understanding the Book of Allah, is referring to the trustworthy books of interpretation of the Quran, and reading what the scholars have said. Such books contain many of the interpretations of the Salaf whether the statements of the companions or those who came after them. Some of these books of Tafsir (i.e. interpretation) are by At-Tabari, Al-Qurtubi, Ibn Kathir and others. Reading these sources helps the person reading the Quran reflect upon the verses and better understand them.

Reciting the Quran attentively while thinking of what one is reading is a matter that was stressed in the Quran, and it helps one reflect. Allah says: “Say, `I only advise you of one [thing] - which you stand for Allah, [seeking truth] in pairs, and individually, and then give thought`” [Surah Saba’, 34: 46]. This better helps the reader understand the Quran.

Another important rule regarding reflecting upon the Quran is applying it to reality. This means (in short) that the Quran was not revealed just for a certain period or a specific place; but is applicable during all times and places. One can best understand The Quran and feel it alive, when it is applied to reality and to the issues of the Muslim nation. For example, every era has its own disbelievers and hypocrites and every era has its own 'Pharaohs' and oppressors.

A serious mistake in this regard is applying verses to those for whom it was not intended, like applying the verses about hypocrites to the believers, or the verses about righteous people to the disbelievers, as this leads to clear and serious misguidance.

To conclude, we would like to remind the reader with the following prophetic narration, of Abu Hurayrah RA that the Prophet SAW said: “Any group of people that assemble in one of the Houses of Allah to recite and study the Quran, tranquility will descend upon them, mercy will engulf them, angels will surround them and Allah will make mention of them to those (the angels) in His proximity.” [Muslim]. It should be noted how the narration linked reciting and studying, and made this a precondition for the four magnificent virtues to be achieved.

Perhaps the reason for the current situation of Muslims is that we read the Book of Allah but do not reflect upon it, and thus our application coincides with our degree of reflection which led us to our current situation.

[ Excerpted with modifications from Islam Web published on 27 August 2006 via  Islam Web]

Recitation of Al-Qur'an

Tilawatīl Quran

Tajuddin Shu’aib.

In the name of Allāh, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful;

All the praise and Thanks are due to Allāh, the Lord of the al-ā’lamīn. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allāh, and that Muhammad, sallallāhu alayhi wa sallam, is His Messenger.

It is highly suggested to recite or read Al-Qur'an, the final word of Allah SWT, at all times, at least completing it twice in a year. The Sahabah (companions) completed Al-Qur'an in five days, some in four while others in three days.

Imam An-Nawawi (Rahimallāh) said: "The speed must depend on the condition and situation of the person and what he or she does for a living." The recitation of Al-Qur'an should not be the reason to become slacked in your other responsibilities. The speed of your recitation must be regulated by the ability to understand, because Al-Quran encourages the reciter to ponder about what he or she reads.

Allah states: "Here is a Book which We have sent down unto thee, full of blessings, that they may meditate on its signs, and that men of understanding may receive admonition." (Sad, 38:29)


This verse indicates that Al-Qur'an was revealed for the maximum encyclopedic benefit, mercy, and guidance to the human race. That is why He (SWT) described it as blessed (mubarak). These blessings can be realized to the fullest only if the reader meditates and thinks through its divine words, containing layers of insights and wisdom and life-long experiences of the human race - of how to live a better life both spiritually and materially -which can never be found in any other book.

In a Hadith by 'Aishah (radiallāhu`anha), reported by Al-Baihaqi, she said:

"The house in which Al-Qur'an is recited is seen by the heavenly world as the stars are seen by the earthly world."

This hadith indicates some of the meritorious aspects of this most authenticated book of Allah. The home in which its residents recite this book is illuminated as brightly as a star on the face of the earth, and is visible in outer space.

As a preparation for reading, it is recommended to have cleanliness, (taharah), by making wudu before settling down to recite Al-Qur'an. For the recitation of Al-Qur'an is worship, 'ibadah, namely the best form of remembrance of Allah (dzikir). The Messenger of Allah s.a.w disliked making dzikir without cleanliness. Allah (SWT) states in Al-Qur'an:

"And that is indeed a mighty adjuration, if you but knew. That this is indeed a Quran most honorable, in a book well-guarded, which none shall touch but those who are clean." (Al-Waqia'ah, 56:76-79).

It is not a sin, however, to read without wudu if you are unclean from minor impurities that entail wudu before prayer. If you feel like using the restroom for urination, passing wind, etc., stop and go relieve yourself completely, and make Wudu then return to resume your reading. If you are defiled from major impurities, that is, the ones which entail complete bath (ghusl), it is prohibited to read Al-Qur'an during the state of defilement, the agents of which include discharge of semen, sexual intercourse, post natal bleeding , and menstruation. However, it is allowed for these people to look in Al-Qur'an while not holding it, and they may read it with their eyes and their hearts, but not recite it. [Note: one shouldn't encourage reading Quran in a state of defilement, but rather encourage first to take Ghusal.]

The place you choose to sit to recite Al-Qur'an should be clean from any filth or bad odor. This is why it is prohibited to read it the restroom. While reading the Qur'an, it is recommended to face the direction of Al-Qiblat.

The recitors are commanded to say, I seek refuge, "Ta'awudh", that is, putting a distance between themselves and Satan (Syaitan) by seeking refuge in Allah (SWT) from the rejected enemy, the reason being Satan dislikes to see a servant in communication with Allah. If you do not seek refuge, he may come to distract, confuse, and induce you to doubt. Allah (SWT) says:

"When you do read Al-Qur'an, seek Allah's protection from Satan, the rejected." [Al-Nahl, 16:98]

In the event that you are interrupted during reading, it is advisable to repeat ta'awwudh before you resume. As for the phrase of ta'awwudh, the following is reported:

A`uwudzu billah (As-Sa mee'u, Al-'Aleem) iminash Shaitan ir Rajeem. [I seek refuge with Allah (The All Hearing, The All-Knowing) from Satan, the rejected].

The majority of scholars recommend that it be said aloud, especially if there is an audience.

We are commanded to start every act, spiritual or non-spiritual, big or small, with Basmalah, that is:

"Bis mil llahir-Rahmanir-Raheem" (In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.)

The reason is to seek Allah's blessings for the action you are about to embark on. Undoubtedly, no deed is more deserving or worthy of Basmalah than the 'ibadah of reading Al-Quran. With the revelation of Bismillahir-Rahmanir Raheem, Allah has educated His Messenger (saas) to make it an unceasing habit of saying Bismillah before reading and before every act.

Basmalah is one of the unique aspects of Al-Qur'an as every chapter (surah), except Surah Nine (Tawbah) commences with this most profound statement. It is prearranged as an incomplete statement to be completed, or filled in, if you will, by the servant. For instance, if you want to read, it becomes: I read in the Name of Allah... if you want to eat, it becomes: I eat in the Name of Allah... That is what we mean by an incomplete statement to be completed by the doer.

It is incumbent upon us to recite with the basic rules of tajwīd, including rules of chanting (al-ghunnah), prolongations (al-madd), assimilation (al-idghaam), etc. In a report by Bukhari, Anas bin Malik (radiallāhu`anhu) was asked to describe the way of the Messenger of Allah  (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam)in reciting Al-Qur'an.

Anas (radiallāhu`anhu) said the Messenger of Allah (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) used to recite with tarteel, chanting, prolonging his long vowels. Anas (radiallāhu`anhu) gave a demonstration by reciting 'Bismillah' to show how the Messenger (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) recited it, prolonging the sublime word, Allah, Ar-Rahman, and Ar-Raheem.'"

It is, however, undesirable to read with excessive speed. Reading a part of Al-Qur'an, (juzu'), slowly, so as to think through what you read, is preferred to reading double the ordinary speed without pondering. The former way is more respectful, and is in accord with the aims of the Lawgiver, than hastily reading through the Book absent-mindedly.

It is recommended to beautify your recital with a pleasant voice. In a Hadith by Ibn Hibban (raa), the Messenger of Allah (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) has been reported as saying:

"Beautify the recitation of your Qur'an with your voices."

But you should not exaggerate to the point that the phonics, morphology, or syntax are distorted or altered. Reciting Al-Qur'an with mistakes, (lahn) is not synonymous with chanting or a pleasing voice. Also, one's recitation should not sound like singing.

It is Sunnah to seek to comprehend what you read. The following are some of the ways one should go about tadabur, or pondering through what he reads. The simplest thing is to think out the meaning of the words so as to get a better insight to their meaning and massage.

If the verse contains commands and prohibitions you should immediately decide to accept or restrain from them. But if it is something you have failed in the past to do, you should seek forgiveness and intend to do it in the future. In the event that the verse contains mercy, you should feel happy and request it, or if it contains wrath, you should seek refuge in Allah. If the verse glorifies Allah, you should glorify Him.

In the book of Muslim, Huzaifah bin Yaman (radiallāhu`anhu) is reported as saying: "I prayed behind the Messenger of Allah (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) one night. He opened his recitation after Al-Fatihah with chapter Al-Baqarah, the Cow. Coming to the end of it, he followed it with the chapter An-Nisa, the Women. Coming to its end, he followed it with Chapter Al-'Imran, the Family of Imran). He read them consecutively and when he came to a verse that contained glorification of Allah, he glorified, or a question, he asked, or seeking refuge he sought refuge."

It is Sunnah to say takbeer from Chapter Ad-Duha, 93 to the end An-Nas, Chapter 114. The Sunnah is to pause at the end of Chapter 93 then say Takbeer. If you are completing Al-Qur'an, you do likewise at the end of each surah, chapter, until An-Nas. The Sunnah was started after the first revelation was received and after the period of Fatrah, during which revelation was cut off form the Prophet (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam), and the Makkans were saying Allah had forsaken Muhammad. When Ad-Duha was revealed, the Messenger of Allah (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).

As to what one should say: You may say "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), or La Illaha illallah, wallahu Akbar, (There is no deity but Allah, and Allah is the Greatest).

The Sunnah recommends prostrating at the end of every sajadah (prostration verse). There are 15 such verses in Al-Qur'an. They are in chapters: Al-A`araf, (7:206); Ar-Ra'ad, (13:15); An-Nahl, (16:49); Al-Isra, (17:107); Maryam, (19:58); Al-Hajj, (22:18 and 22:77); Al-Furqan, (25:60); An-Naml, (27:77); As-Sajdah, (32:15); Saad, (38:24); Fussilat, (41:37); An-Najm, (53:62); Al-Insiqaq, (84:21); and Al-'Alaq, (96:19).

Now there is the question about what is the best time to read or recite Al-Qur'an. The best time by far is reciting during Solat, then night-time reading, especially the latter part of it. The best time of day is after Subuh (Morning Prayer). The best or preferred days are the days of 'Arafah, Fridays, Mondays, and Thursdays. The best ten days are the last ten of Ramadhan and first ten days of the month, Zul-Hijjah. Of the months, Ramadhan is the best.

The preferred day to start Al-Qur'an is Friday, and the best day to complete it is Thursday. The best hour to complete it is the first part of the day or night. For, according to Sa'ad bin Abi Waqqaas (radiallāhu`anhu), if the completion is in the first part of the night, the angels will pray for you until morning, and if it is early in the morning they will pray for you until evening. Fasting is recommended on the day of completion.

It is recommended to start again after each completion of Al-Qur'an. In a hadith reported by Tirmidzi (radiallāhu`anhu), the Messenger of Allah  (sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam)has been reported as saying:

"The best deeds in the sight of Allah are the deeds of the one who completes Qur'an and resumes again, the one who reads Al-Quran from the beginning to the end, and whenever he finishes he resumes again."

It is undesirable to stop reading to converse or talk to someone, laugh or play or look at something that takes away your attention, unless there is a valid reason, as has been reported by Al-Bukhari, by the way of Ibn 'Umar (radiallāhu`anhu) .

[ Via MSA].

The Virtues of Reading the Qur'an

The Virtues of Reading the Qur'an
Ibn Abdullah

In the Name of Allāh, Most Gracious, Most Merciful;

All praise and thanks are due to Allāh, May Allāh’s blessings and peace be upon His Messenger.

The Arabic world “Al-Quran” literally means “the recitation”. When used in regards to Islam, the word Al-Qur’an means God’s final message to mankind that was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Sallahu 'alaihi wa sallam). The Al-Qur'an, sometimes spelled Koran, is the literal the word of God - as it clearly says time and time again. Unlike other sacred scriptures, the Qur’an has been perfectly preserved in both its words and meaning in a living language.

The Al-Qur'an is a living miracle in the Arabic language; and is known to be inimitable in its style, form and spiritual impact. God’s final revelation to mankind, the Al-Qur'an, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad(Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) over a period of 23 years. The Al-Qur'an, in contrast to many other religious books, was always thought to be the Word of God by those who believed in it, i.e. it wasn’t something decreed by a religious council many years after being written. Also, the Al-Qur'an was recited publicly in front of both the Muslim and non-Muslim communities during the life of the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam). The entire Al-Qur'an was also completely written down in lifetime of the Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam), and numerous companions of the Prophet memorized the entire Al-Qur'an word-for-word as it was revealed. So unlike other scriptures, the Al-Qur'an was always in the hands of the common believers, it was always thought to be God’s word and, due to wide-spread memorization, it was perfectly preserved.

In regards to the teachings of the Al-Qur'an - it is a universal scripture, and it is addressed to all of mankind, and not to a particular tribe or “chosen people”. The message that it brings is nothing new, but the same message of all of the prophets - submit to Almighty God and worship Him alone. As such, God’s revelation in the Al-Qur'an focuses on teaching human beings the importance of believing in the Unity of God and framing their lives around the guidance which He has sent.

Additionally, the Al-Qur'an contains the stories of the previous prophets, such as Abraham, Noah, Moses and Jesus; as well as many commands and prohibitions from God. In modern times in which so many people are caught up in doubt, spiritual despair and “political correctness“, the Quranic teachings offer solutions to the emptiness of our lives and the turmoil that is gripping the world today. In short, the Al-Qur’an is the book of guidance par excellence.

Al-Qur'an is The Word of Allah.

The Noble Al-Qur'an is the Book of Allah, His divine revealed Words. The eternal miracle of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) revealed from Allah the Exalted. Every Prophet was supported with a miracle(s) and upon his death it were disappeared, with the exception of Al-Qur'an revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam)  whose miracle remained, preserved and protected until today.

Allah Says: “Falsehood cannot approach it from before it or from behind it.” [Surah Fussilat, 41:42]

Allah SWT clearly stated that the Al-Qur'an is His Word, Saying:

• “And if any one of the polytheists seeks your protection, then grant him protection so that he may hear the words of Allah [the Quran].” [At-Tawbah, 9:6],

• “Those who remained behind will say when you set out toward the war booty to take it, ‘Let us follow you’. They wish to change the words of Allah.” [Al-Fath, 48:15]

Allah Says in These two verses that the Al-Qur'an is the Word of Allah and that He sent it down to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam).

In a Hadith as it was narrated by Jabir reported: “The Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) used to offer his message to people during the season of Hajj and say: “Is there a man who would take me to his tribe (to convey the message to them), because the (tribe of) Quraish have prevented me from conveying the Word of Allah?” [Ahmad and At-Tirmidzi]

There are many logical and substantial evidences proving this fact, such as the inability of the polytheists to come up with one single verse, let alone a whole chapter, that is similar to it. This is so, despite their eagerness and ambition to prove the Prophet were wrong in what he was calling to, and their strong command of the Arabic language in which the Qur'an was revealed. Undoubtedly, this is evidence that the Al-Qur'an is not made by or the words of humans.

The Qur'an contains news of past nations and other unseen matters which serve as great proof that it is the Word of Allah. When the Persians defeated the Romans in battle, the Al-Qur'an addressed the issue and informed that the Romans would overcome the Persians in few years to come as Allah Says:

“The Romans have been defeated (i.e. By the Persians) in the nearest land. But they, after their defeat, will overcome.” [Ar-Rum, 30: 2-3]

Furthermore, the Al-Qur'an consists of scientific miracles by highlighting certain scientific facts which were not discovered except fourteen centuries later, such as the Al-Qur'an proving that there is a barrier between the salty water and fresh water where they meet preventing them from mixing, as Allah Says:

“He released the two seas (the two bodies of water: fresh and salt), meeting [side by side]. Between them is a barrier [so] neither of them transgresses.” [Ar-Rahman, 55: 19-20].

The modern science had discovered this to be a fact.

The fact that tranquility and assurance can be found upon reading the Al-Qur'an which is not felt when reading any other book, is yet another proof that it is the Word of Allah, as Allah Says:

“Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the mention of Allah. Unquestionably by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.” [Ar-Raad, 13: 28]

Furthermore, being cured by virtue of reading the Al-Qur'an over a sick person can be added to the list of evidences proving it to be the Word of Allah. Allah Says:

“And We send down of the Qur'an that which is healing and mercy for the believers.” [Al-Israa’, 17: 82]

Al-Walid Ibn Al-Mughirah, one of the leaders of the polytheists who were requested to criticize and censure the Qur'an. After hearing parts of it from Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam), he said:

“What can I say? I swear by Allah! There is no man who knows poetry better than me, and it does not sound like anything I ever heard. The only thing I can say is that it has sweetness to it, and it is so appealing. It is so fruitful (to the heart) and abundant (in its benefits). Indeed, nothing rises above it in style, and it surely destroys anything that challenges it.” [Al-Hakim and Al-Baihaqi]

This is the Qur'an, the Word of Allah, which confounds humans’ capabilities due to its inimitable style, justice and accuracy. The Qur'an still challenges people and people remain incapable of challenging it, and it remains the clear evidence from Allah against its enemies and opponents. All efforts to deny its authenticity have failed.

To reflect upon the verses of Allah of the Glorious Qur'an is a form of worship; it is something that will draw one close to Allah, the Most Exalted. This reflection is not a reckless and wandering one, rather, it includes a study of the classical Tafsir of the verses being pondered over.

Allah Says in the Quran: “Then do they not reflect upon the Qur'an? If it had been from [any] other than Allah, they would have found within it much contradiction.” [Surah An-Nisa’, 4:82]

The Book of Allah is unlike any other; it is the timeless Speech of Allah, and not a created thing. It is the study guide for life, death, and what follows. Therefore, it deserves a far more careful study than anyone else’s speech.

It necessitates that its reader return to the early narrations of those who witnessed its revelation and heard its explanation of the meaning of the Qur'an. If one would try to ponder over the meanings of the verses with reference to them it would entails correct application and understanding that the early Muslims had done which had been intended by Allah, Most Exalted, and therefore he be on the right path in worshipping Allah.

Every Muslim should hold tight to the meanings explained by the Prophet SAW and those taught by the Companions and their immediate followers, and the early scholars of Islam.

It should be noted that reciting and pondering over the Book of Allah and devoting regular time to its study and implementation has tremendous benefits in this life and the next. Let us now look at just a few of them to attach ourselves more firmly to the majestic Words of Allah. Each benefits stands as enough of an encouragement to shun any laziness we have and dedicate ourselves wholly to the Qur'an.

Reading and Reflecting Over the Quran Fulfils an Islamic Duty.

The Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) summarized this religion with his statement: “The religion (of Islam) is nasihah (offering sincere advice)!” Tamim bin Aws said: “We asked, ‘To whom?’” He replied: “To Allah, His Book, His Messenger, the leaders of the people, and to their subjects.” [Muslim]

It entails a due sincerity to the Book of Allah includes its regular recitation, learning the rules of Tajweed (the recitation of the Qur'an, according to specified rules) and reciting it beautifully, learning about its Tafsir and the reasons for its revelation, affirming that it is the truth, the perfect Speech of Allah and not part of the creation, honoring it and defending it, abiding by the orders and prohibitions found in it, and teaching it and calling to it.

Guidance to the Mankind.

The Book of Allah to mankind's guidance is like the soul in relation to the body. Therefore, he who abandons its recitation and does not act in accordance to its laws is in a state of spiritual death. Allah Almighty says:

"And is one who was dead and We gave him life and made for him light by which to walk among the people like one who is in darkness, never to emerge there from?" [Al-An’am, 6:122]

A person without Qur'an is like a person without water, air and medicine. Allah, the Most Exalted, says:

"And We send down of the Qur'an, that which is healing and mercy for the believers, but it does not increase the wrongdoers except in loss." [Al-Israa’, 17:82]

The Qur'an is a healing for the body and the soul. Whenever life becomes hard and complicated, the Light of the Qur'an will always brighten the way. It will be a source of solace and tranquility. It will be a defender to you when you are powerless and in need. When the Muslim recites the Qur'an, he will feel matchless tranquility in his heart and being. This causes him only to fear Allah alone.

Allah Almighty says :

"Those to whom people [i.e. hypocrites] said, “Indeed, the people have gathered against you, so fear them.” But it [merely] increased them in faith, and they said, “Sufficient for us is Allah, and [He is] the best Disposer of affairs.” So they returned with favor from Allah and bounty, no harm having touched them. And they pursued the pleasure of Allah, and Allah is the Possessor of great bounty. That is only Satan who frightens [you] of his supporters. So fear them not, but fear Me, if you are [indeed] believers." [Al-‘Imran, 3:173-175]

Sadly, many have not taken this Qur'an into consideration and have neglected its recitation and implementation. They sought the worldly life and neglected the Hereafter. Allah says:

"And if you obey most of those upon the earth, they will mislead you from the way of Allah. They follow not except assumption, and they are not but falsifying." [AL-An’am, 6:116]

Tragically, there are those who recite the Qur'an in its entirety and finish with little more than with what they began with in terms of contemplation and action. Some are so concerned with how they sound, they beautify their voice without ever listening to what is being ordered or prohibited. Truly, there are many reciters of the Qur'an that the Quran is free from them and their evil. They recite the Qur'an and are oppressive to themselves and others by not following its orders or forbidding its prohibitions.

The Al-Qur'an Will Be a Proof For or Against Us on the Day of Judgement.

The Messenger (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam)  Said: “And the Qur'an is a proof for you or against you.” [Muslim].

One of two things will occur with the Book of Allah on the Day of Judgement. It will either be in one’s favour, as a proof for us on that Day when we would desperately need every single good deed, or it will be something standing against us. The Speech of our Creator would be as a proof against us! No one could be saved from the terrors of that Day if Allah’s own Speech is against Him?

It is timely to look at our current status with the Qur'an. Are we neglecting it, contradicting it, and being heedless of its orders and prohibitions? Are we thinking deeply over it? Will it be on our side on the Day of Judgement?

It will intercede on behalf of those who recited it on the Day of Judgement.

In the Qur'an are the parables of those who were before us, a prophesy of that which will be after us and a criterion to judge between us. It is Truth with certainty that was revealed to us. The one who lives according to its dictations will be rewarded. The one who judges according to it will be just. The one who calls to it is on the Straight Path. Allah raises and lowers people's status based on their adherence to it. The Qur'an, on the Day of Judgment, will intercede on behalf of those who recited it.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: "The one who reads a single letter from the Book of Allah will be rewarded with one good deed. (Know that) A good deed is multiplied ten times over. I do not say Alif Laam Meem is one letter. Verily, Alif is one letter, Lam is one letter, Meem is one letter." [At-Tirmidzi]

Abu Umamah related that the Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “Read the Qur'an, for indeed it will come on the Day of Standing (Judgement) as an intercessor for its companions.” [Muslim]

The Al-Qur'an Raises One’s Status.

In Sahih Muslim, which is one of the two most authentic books of prophetic narrations, we find a wonderful story about how a man from the people of Paradise, ‘Umar bin Al-Khattab understood this principle. The story is that once, some men came to question him during his reign as caliph regarding the leadership of Makkah. The men asked: “Who do you use to govern Makkah?” He said: “Ibn Abza.” They asked: “And who is Ibn Abza?” ‘Umar replied: “A freed slave from those we freed.” They remarked: “You left a freed slave in command of the People of the Valley (the noble tribes of the Quraish)?” He replied: “Indeed he is a reciter of the Book of Allah and is knowledgeable about the obligations of the Muslims. Haven’t you heard the statement of your Messenger: “Verily Allah raises some people by this Book and lowers others by it?” [Sahih Muslim]

It Increases Them in Faith

Nothing is more valuable to a Muslim in his worldly life and in the Hereafter than reciting the Qur'an and reflecting and trying to comprehend its meaning. In doing so, an individual will become acquainted with what is good and what is evil. He will see the effects of disobedience of Allah and its punishment in the parables of those who have come before us. An example of such a punishment is the flood that was sent upon the people of Nuh (Noah) and others similar to it. It is a source of inspiration and it strengthens one's belief in Allah. For this reason, Allah says:

" … and when His (Allah's) verses (Qur'an) are recited to them, it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord they rely." [Al-Anfal, 8:2]

This Book was sent and revealed from above the seven Heavens so that it could be comprehended and implemented, it is not just to be recited while the heart is pre-occupied. Allah Almighty says:

"[This is] a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad, sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam], that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded." [Fatir, 38:29]

What has happened to our hearts? Why are our hearts locked out and unresponsive to the Qur'an? Why do the words enter from one ear and exit out the other? Why have our hearts hardened? Let us comprehend the Qur'an and implement it in our lives. Let us be from those who implement the Qur'an in our days and recite it during our nights.

The People of the Al-Qur'an are from Best of People.

‘Uthman said that the Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it to others.” [Al-Bukhari]

Rewards for Every Letter Recited from the Al-Qur'an.

Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah, he will have a reward, and this reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that ‘Alif, Lam, Mim’ (a combination of letters frequently mentioned in the Holy Quran) is a letter, rather I am saying that ‘Alif’ is a letter, ‘Lam’ is a letter and ‘Mim’ is a letter.” [At-Tirmidzi]

Thus the value of recitation of the Qur'an as we always gains these merits, as well as the following ones.

The Reciters Would Be in the Company of Angels.

‘Aishah related that the Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “Indeed the one who recites the Qur'an beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. As for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have twice that reward.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

One should let the Syaitan (Satan) give you false excuses, such as ‘I am not an Arab.’ or ‘It is not in my language.’ The Hadith is a firm proof against these whisperings. One need to dedicate to the Book of Allah, whether one an Arab or not! The excuses have been eliminated and the pathway has been cleared for you to embrace the Book of Allah without holding back. Surely one would not hesitate to seek a teacher or a study circle for the Qur'an once learned the greatest benefits of reading and contemplating over the Qur'an.

Position and Rank in Paradise is Determined by the Amount of Quran He Memorized Quran.

‘Abdullah bin ‘Amr bin Al-‘Aas heard the Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) saying: “It will be said to the companion of the Qur'an: ‘Read and elevate (through the levels of Paradise) and beautify your voice as you did when you were in the worldly life! For verily, your position in Paradise will be at the last verse you recite!’” [Abu Dawud & At-Tirmidzi]

The Al-Qur'an Leads to Paradise.

The al-Qur'an states: “Indeed the Quran 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.” [Al-Israa’, 17:9]

The Prophet (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “The Qur'an is an intercessor - something given permission to intercede, and it is rightfully believed in. Whoever puts it in front of him, it will lead him to Paradise; whoever puts it behind him, it will steer him to the Hellfire.” [At-Tabarani]

It should be noted that these benefits from the numerous benefits available can only be attained by a sincere commitment to the Book of Allah, and not simply by an empty claim of love for it. Rather, the heart must be sincerely attached to the Book of Allah and the limbs and tongue will follow suit in this attachment. One must know that we only mentioned a few of the numerous benefits of reading and reflecting over the Qur'an. There are many other benefits that await your reading of the Qur'an and books of Hadith, such as the chapter of the Quran that will plead on your behalf in the grave, and that it is a physical healing, a source of rest and relaxation for your heart, among many other things.

The reciting and pondering over the Book of Allah and devoting regular time to its study and implementation have tremendous benefits in this life and the next. Let us now look at just a few of them to attach ourselves more firmly to the majestic Words of Allah. Each benefits stands as enough of an encouragement to shun any laziness we have and dedicate ourselves wholly to the Al-Qur'an.

[Excerpted with modifications from Islam Web published on Monday, 26 December 2005]