by The Holy Quran is the sacred book of Islam. It contains the words of Allah that were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over 23 years. The Quran serves as the primary source of guidance for Muslims on matters of Islamic beliefs, ethics, rituals, history, and all aspects of the Islamic way of life.
In today’s world with computers and the internet, it’s easy to learn about religion without leaving home. For Muslims in the UK, free Quran online classes are a great way to learn more about Islam and what the Quran teaches. You can join these classes from your living room and go at your own pace. It’s like having a teacher right on your computer or phone!
Why is the Quran So Important?
Muslims believe the Quran is a linguistic miracle due to its unique literary style and content. The words of the Quran were revealed by Allah to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). It was revealed in Arabic and is the central religious text of Islam.
Allah states in the Quran: “This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.” (Quran 2:2) This verse emphasises that the Quran is divinely revealed to guide those mindful of Allah.
As the literal words of the Creator, Muslims afford the utmost respect and reverence to the Holy Quran. Below are some of the key rights and etiquettes that the Quran demands from Muslims:
1. Striving to Understand the Quran
The first right of the Quran is that Muslims should make an effort to read, understand, and apply its teachings to their lives. Since it was revealed in Arabic, Muslims must learn Arabic properly to comprehend the Quran fully without relying solely on translations.
Allah criticises the hypocrites who ignored the Quran’s meanings: “And when you recite the Quran, We place between you and those who disbelieve in the Hereafter a hidden barrier.” (Quran 17:45) This refers to how Allah sealed off the hypocrites from sincerely understanding the Quran.
Muslims must ponder deeply and frequently reflect on the Quran so they can implement its guidance correctly.
2. Reciting the Quran Regularly
Muslims should try to establish a strong connection with the Quran by reciting from it daily, even a few verses. Regular recitation instills the teachings of the Quran into the hearts of believers and keeps them steadfast in faith and righteous conduct.
Allah instructs believers to recite the Quran properly: “Those We have given the Book follow it as it should be followed. It is they who ˹truly˺ believe in it. As for those who reject it, it is they who are the losers.” (Quran 2:121) This encourages proper and regular recitation.
Frequently reading the Quran strengthens one’s faith and attachment to Allah’s guidance.
3. Implementing the Teachings of the Quran
Simply reciting the words of the Quran is not sufficient. Muslims must exert effort to apply the Quran’s instructions in their daily lives, implementing its beliefs, acts of worship, moral code, and guidance on righteous conduct.
Allah warns those who ignore practicing the Quran: ” O believers, why do you say what you do not do?” (Quran 61:2) This refers to enjoining right but not doing it oneself.
The best way to uphold the rights of the Quran is by striving to become righteous believers who enjoin good and forbid evil, as described in its teachings.
4. Being in a State of Purity
When touching or reading the Arabic text of the Quran, especially the mushaf (written copy), Muslims should be in a state of physical purity. Ritual impurity (najasah) is caused by natural bodily processes.
To attain purity, Muslims must perform ablution (wudu) before handling the Quran again. This shows respect and care when interacting with Allah’s words. The Quran states: “None touch it except the purified.” (Quran 56:79)
5. Not Letting It Touch the Ground
The physical Quran book (mushaf) should not be placed on the floor or ground, out of respect for the sacred words. If accidentally dropped, it should be picked up immediately and dusted off.
The Prophet (PBUH) instructed: “Do not leave the Quran on the bed or make something else over it. The Book of Allah deserves more reverence than that.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 1418)
6. Reciting it Beautifully
When reciting the Quran aloud in prayers or gatherings, one should recite it according to the authentic rules of tajweed. Tajweed refers to reciting each letter from its articulation point with all its attributes, like proper pronunciation.
The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Adorn the Quran with your voices.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi) Reciting the Quran melodiously with proper tajweed enhances its beauty.
7. Handling Quran Books with Care
Muslims should handle the physical Quran mushaf with utmost care, including:
- Not placing other books or items over the mushaf
- Putting it in a clean, high place when not reading
- Wrapping it respectfully in cloth if kept for long periods
- Avoiding touching it without wudu
- Not taking it to dirty places
The Prophet (PBUH) taught: “Reviling the Quran amounts to disbelief.” (Sunan Abi Dawud) This demonstrates the required etiquette when handling the Book of Allah.
8. Listening Attentively When Recited
When the Quran is recited aloud in gatherings, listeners should pay full attention and reflect deeply on its meaning. Engaging in worldly distractions or talk that interferes with listening is prohibited.
Allah instructs: “So when the Qur’an is recited, then listen to it.” (Quran 7:204) This encourages mindfulness when the Quran is recited.
9. Memorising and Teaching It
Muslims strive to memorise the entire Quran or portions of it in Arabic and act upon it. This internalises the Quran into one’s heart and mind for greater benefit. Those who learn the Quran are held in high esteem.
The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.” (Bukhari) This highlights the virtues of memorising and disseminating the Quran.
10. Contemplating and Understanding It
Islam encourages deep contemplation over the meanings, wisdom, and messages of the Quran. Muslims should frequently reflect on its verses through discussions, lectures, and study circles aimed at comprehension and implementation.
Allah asks: “Do they not then think deeply about the Quran, or are their hearts locked up?” (Quran 47:24)
Tips to Learn Free Quran Classes Online UK
- Visit sites like Quran.com, IslamicFinder.org, or ClearQuran.com for free Quran downloads in various languages.
- Download apps like “Quran Explorer,” “Muslim Pro,” or “iQuran” for free access to the Quran with translations and recitations.
- Contact local mosques or Islamic centers for free copies or check if they have online distribution.
- Occasionally, websites like Amazon or eBay may offer free Quran copies as part of promotions.
- Some libraries provide online access to religious texts, including the Quran. Lastly, check local library catalogs for availability.
Conclusion
Recognising and honoring the rights of the Quran holds significant importance in the practice of Islam. By comprehending its teachings, Muslims establish a profound connection with their Creator. Striving for spiritual excellence entails embodying the principles outlined within its verses.
As a Quraan Teacher, our priority is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for our students. Our Quran tutor is dedicated to helping each student learn the proper way to recite the Quran.
