Bismillah
Summary Notes – Lesson 20
– Our hearts are created upon Fitrah (natural inclination) that’s why the become affected by the recitation of the Qur’an
– It is better to recite slowly or quickly? We should have different relationships with the Qur’an. A quick-paced relationship that allows you to finish the Qur’an quickly and attain the rewards of reciting each letter. Also a relationship based on contemplation and deliberation of the ayahs.
– We must also recite the Qur’an with Tajweed. Scholars agree it is best to recite the Qur’an how it was revealed. The Qur’an came down as ‘Talaqee’ – based on recitation. It didn’t come down in book form.

– Tajweed assists us is reading the Qur’an in the same way the Prophet ﷺ heard it.
– Imam al-Jazari (famous scholar of tajweed and Qur’an), says it is compulsary to recite the Qur’an with Tajweed and that one who doesn’t beautify it with Tajweed is sinful.
– Action point: Enrol yourself in a programme that is dedicated towards learning the rules of Tajweed. Such as Tanzeel: http://www.tanzeel.org
– Anas (ra) said regarding the recitation of the Prophet ﷺ, “it was prolonged.”

– Also amongst the etiquettes is to try your level best to beautify your recitation.

– However, keep in mind you are not singing a song. So refrain from creating a tune.
– The companion Al Baraa’ heard the Prophet ﷺ recite Surah Teen and he said he never head anyone recite as beautiful as he did.
– “Allah has not heard anything similar to a Prophet reciting the Qur’an in a beautiful way.” (Bukhari) ‘Yataghanna – melodious recitation.
– “Beautify your voice when reciting the Qur’an because it increases the beauty of that which is already beautiful.”
– The Prophet (s) once heard Abu Musa al-ashari (r) recite the Qur’an but he never made himself known to him. The next day he told Abu Musa regarding the recitation he heard. The Prophet ﷺ said “If only you had seen me listening to your recitation last night. Indeed you have been given a fruit from the fruits of the family of Dawood (as).” Dawood (as) was known for having a beautiful voice.

– Shedding tears is also part of being affected by the Qur’an. Abdullah ibn Shuhair said, “I went to the Prophet ﷺ when he was praying and heard a crying sound from his chest like the sound of a container.”
– If the eyes don’t tear then the heart should tear.

– One shouldn’t disturb another person when they are reciting the Qur’an.
– Is it better to recite loudly or quietly? Loudly, as it takes more effort and you use more energy. Reward is proportional to effort. Disclaimer: As long as you don’t disturb those around you.
– We also have narrations that praise silent recitations.
– Read in a manner that brings about the most Khushu.’

– How often should you finish reading the entire Qur’an? What is the recommended time period?
– The Sahaabah differed in this. Some completed it into 2 months, 10 days, 7 days, 3 days etc.
– Abdullah ibn amr said that the Prophet ﷺ said to him: “Read the Qur’an in one month.” The companion then replied but I find myself more able. The Prophet ﷺ then advised him to complete it in 7 days but don’t go less than this. (Bukhari)
– Scholars differ to whether you can complete it in less than 7 days. However, there is a narration that mentions 3 days and it is reported in Sunan Abu Dawud.
– Some scholars said to go with 7 days due to the narration being recorded in Bukhari which is a more authentic source. Others say it boils down to ability.
– Imam Nawawi says it depends on the state of a person.
– At least we should try to complete the Qur’an once every month. 30 Juzz = 30 days. However you are allowed to recite more depending on ability and state.

– If your tongue is used to the recitation of the Qur’an you can complete it quicker. Strive to complete the Qur’an at least 6 times a year.

– To say ‘SubhanAllah’ when reciting the ayah of Tasbeeh, to seek refuge in Allah when reciting the ayahs on punishment and to seek isitghfaar when reciting the ayahs on forgiveness is also an etiquette of the Qur’an.
– Example: Ater the first ayah of Surah ‘Alaa you should say ‘subhanAllah’ to yourself.

– Sujood Tilaawah – ayaat of prostration.
– Hanafi madhab say it is compulsary to prostrate, others say it is recommended.

– Beneficial knowledge is only beneficial if you put it into practice. The knowledge of the Shari’ah mandates action and should transform our hearts, minds and souls.