How Can I Achieve the Benefit of Reading the Qur’an When I Can’t Read Arabic?

Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Question: Assalamu alaykum

I would like to read Surat Al Baqara for a specific reason but I cannot read Arabic. What are my options? Do I listen to a reading of it? Can I read a translation of it? Should I try the transliteration?

Answer: Walaikum assalam,

I hope you’re doing well, insha’Allah.

The scholars deduce from various verses of the Qur’an that listening to the Qur’an is as rewarding as reciting it oneself. [Itr, Ulum al-Qur’an]

Allah Most High says, “When the Qur’an is recited, listen to it and be attentive—so that you may be granted Mercy.” [Qur’an, 7.204]

If you can, follow along by looking at a copy of the Qur’an. This is easy on digital devices, as they tend to highlight the verse being recited.

And Allah is the giver of success and facilitation.

wassalam,

Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani is a scholar and researcher of Islamic law and Executive Director of SeekersGuidance Global After ten years overseas, Shaykh Faraz returned to Canada in the Summer of 2007. In May 2008 he founded SeekersGuidance Global to deal with the urgent need to spread Islamic knowledge—both online and on the ground—in a reliable, relevant, inspiring, and accessible manner. He has been repeatedly listed as one of the world’s 500 most influential Muslims (The Muslim500).