Does Incorrect Pronunciation of Recitation Break The Prayer?

Question: Does the incorrect pronunciation of letters or errors in the rules of recitation break the prayer?

Answer: 

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate

Although some scholars took a very strict stance regarding mistakes in recitation, others deemed that unintentional errors in recitation do not invalidate the prayer [Ibn ‘Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar citing the Khulasa].

For this reason, consider your prayers to be valid, and do not worry. However, you should still strive to perfect your recitation. Seek out a teacher with an authorized chain of transmission in the recitation of Qur’an and have them correct you.

Allah Most High says, “..and recite the Quran ˹properly˺ in a measured way” [Qur’an; 73:04].

Note that perfecting your recitation will take hard work. You should work hard and ask Allah Most High to grant you this blessing. Do not become despondent, strive for excellence whilst relying only on Allah Most High.

You will be rewarded for your efforts not merely for results.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The one who recites the Qur’an with skill will be with the noble scribes and the one who recites while stammering and it is difficult for them – has two rewards” [Muslim].

Hope this helps
Allah knows best
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch

Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Yusuf Weltch is a graduate from Tarim; a student of Habib Umar and other luminaries; and authorized teachers of the Qur’an and the Islamic sciences