Purity
Before commencing the recitation of the Noble Quran, it is paramount to ensure one’s purity. Allah, the Almighty, states: “None shall touch it except those who are purified.” Purity encompasses three essential aspects:
- **Purity of the place:** The location should be clean and appropriate for reciting the Quran. It is deemed disrespectful to engage in Quranic recitation in unclean places, such as bathrooms.
- **Purity of clothing:** One’s attire should be clean and free from any impurities and dirt, demonstrating reverence for the Sacred Book. Additionally, it is advisable for the garments to have a pleasant fragrance.
- **Purity of the body:** Muslims should strive to perform ablution (wudu) before reading the Quran, ensuring their bodies are clean and pure.
Using Siwak
It is recommended for individuals preparing to read the Quran to cleanse their mouths with siwak, as they are about to utter the noblest of words. Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah honor his face) stated, “Your mouths are pathways for the Quran; hence purify them with siwak.” Cleaning the mouth with siwak or an equivalent is of great significance because angels draw near to the reciter. A purified mouth invites angels to receive the Quran, whereas a foul-smelling mouth pushes them away. Therefore, it is imperative for one to maintain oral hygiene and eliminate any unpleasant odors before reciting the Holy Quran.
Covering the Awrah
One’s attire should be appropriate when addressing Allah, the Most High. Just as one would prepare meticulously to speak with a king, the same should apply when engaging with the Creator, the true Master of the universe. The Quran is His Word, and therefore, it is fitting for a Muslim to present themselves in their best possible manner while reciting it. For women, wearing hijab can sometimes pose a challenge while at home; nonetheless, it suffices for them to cover their bodies adequately while ensuring they maintain proper decorum in line with the etiquette of Quranic recitation.
Facing the Qibla
It is preferable for the reader to face the Qibla while sitting down to recite the Quran, especially in a mosque.
Reading with a Moderate Voice
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged reciting the Quran beautifully, stating: “Enhance the Quran with your voices.” People vary in vocal quality; some possess melodious voices while others may not. Those blessed with pleasant voices should be aware that this is a great favor from Allah, yet the purpose of recitation should not be to seek praise or admiration from others. Intent should be purely for Allah’s sake. If someone focuses on pleasing people through their voice, it becomes a source of temptation for them. The essence of the Quran is to awaken people from their heedlessness and motivate them to follow Allah’s commands. For those who may not possess a beautiful voice, it is unnecessary to force themselves into imitation; instead, they should strive for sincerity in their recitation, which is far more commendable.
Sitting with Respect for the Quran
One should display appropriate etiquette while sitting to read, though reclining is acceptable at home. Allah states: “Those who remember Allah while standing or sitting or lying on their sides.” However, a posture of humility is preferable. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would often sit cross-legged after the Fajr prayer, facing the Qibla, and engage in the remembrance of Allah until sunrise.
Observing Tajweed Rules
Allah says: “And recite the Quran in slow, measured rhythmic tones.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) also stated: “The expert in reciting the Quran will be with the noble, righteous scribes, and the one who recites with difficulty, while it is hard for them, will have two rewards.” Muslims should pay careful attention to the rules of Quranic recitation and learn these rules diligently to be granted the esteemed rank mentioned by the Prophet, standing alongside the noble angels.
Conclusion: Reciting the Holy Quran is among the most revered acts in the sight of Allah. The Prophet has conveyed that for every letter recited, ten rewards are recorded. Such a significant reward demands an equally profound level of respect. The etiquette of Quranic recitation reflects this reverence: one should ensure that their clothing, body, place, and mouth are pure, face the Qibla, dress modestly, maintain a beautiful tone in recitation, and diligently apply the rules of Tajweed, thus reciting as it was revealed to us by our beloved Messenger.