Etiquettes Observed by the Quran Reader Before Recitation
A number of etiquettes should be observed by anyone reciting the Quran. Below are some key points to consider:
- Sincerity: It is essential for the reader to aim for the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and seek reward through their recitation. They should refrain from seeking worldly benefits, such as wealth, status, or praise from others. As stated in the Quran: (وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاء وَيُقِيمُوا الصَّلَاةَ وَيُؤْتُوا الزَّكَاةَ وَذَلِكَ دِينُ الْقَيِّمَةِ). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) warned against insincerity, stating: (من تعلَّم علمًا مما يبتغى به وجهَ اللهِ -تعالى-، لا يتعلَّمُه إلا ليُصيبَ به عرضًا من الدنيا لم يجِدْ عَرْفَ الجنةِ يومَ القيامةِ، يعني ريحَها). Some traditions indicate that those who recite without sincerity will be among the first to be punished in Hell on the Day of Judgment.
- Ritual Purity: It is recommended for the Quran reader to be in a state of wudu (ablution) during recitation. While reciting without wudu is permissible, it is preferable to be purified. In the absence of water, tayammum (dry ablution) is acceptable. Those in a state of major impurity or menstruation are prohibited from reading the Quran; however, they may reflect upon its verses in their hearts without vocalizing them.
- Use of Siwak: The reader should use the siwak (toothstick) before commencing recitation. The Prophet (PBUH) stated: (السِّواكُ مَطهرةٌ للفمِ، مَرضاةٌ للرَّبِّ). Scholars recommend using siwak before reading, as what comes from the reader’s mouth is conveyed to the angel, who places his mouth upon the reader’s mouth.
- Cleanliness: The reader should ensure that the place chosen for recitation is clean. Some scholars encourage reading in mosques due to their inherent cleanliness and sanctity. Recitation is also acceptable in public as long as one remains focused; however, it is disliked in distracting environments. Menstruating women can read the Quran as long as they do not physically touch the Mus’haf, given the extended duration of their state.
- Facing the Qiblah: It is recommended that the reader faces the Qiblah while reciting the Quran, adopting a posture of humility and respect. Reading while lying down is acceptable but considered less favorable.
- Seeking Refuge: Before beginning, the reader should say: “أعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم,” in accordance with: (فَإِذَا قَرَأْتَ الْقُرْآنَ فَاسْتَعِذْ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ). Scholars of tafsir suggest this should be done at the start of the reading.
- Reciting in the Name of Allah: The phrase “بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم” should be recited, except when beginning Surah Al-Tawbah.
- Fragrance and Clean Apparel: It is considered meritorious to adorn oneself with pleasant fragrance and wear clean clothes when reading the Quran, following the practice of the Prophet (PBUH).
In summary, a Quran reader should embrace various etiquettes before commencing their recitation, including sincerity, purification, use of siwak, facing the Qiblah, keeping their attire clean, applying fragrance, and reciting the seek refuge and the Bismillah prior to reading.
Etiquettes Observed by the Reader During Recitation
Several etiquettes must be upheld during the recitation of the Quran, which include:
- It is recommended to pause reading when yawning, as the reader is addressing and conversing with their Lord. Additionally, avoid unnecessary movements or distractions.
- The Mus’haf should be held in hand or placed on an elevated surface, rather than on the ground, to respect its sanctity.
- Pause at verses of promise to ask Allah for His bounties, and during verses of warning to seek refuge from His punishment, emulating the practice of the Prophet (PBUH), who would stop at verses of mercy and punishment.
- Read the Quran with contemplation and focus, rather than rushing through it. The primary goal should be quality rather than quantity, as hasty reading detracts from reflection.
- Recite the Quran with a measured tone, avoiding reciting it in a manner that resembles poetry. Vocal enhancement while reading is encouraged, as it emphasizes the beauty of the recitation. Numerous verses exhort readers to reflect during recitation, such as: (كِتَابٌ أَنزَلْنَاهُ إِلَيْكَ مُبَارَكٌ لّيَدّبّرُوَاْ آيَاتِهِ وَلِيَتَذَكّرَ أُوْلُو الألْبَابِ), and the Prophet (PBUH) would sometimes repeat verses multiple times.
- Crying during the recitation is a sign of righteousness, as illustrated in: (إِذَا تُتْلَىَ عَلَيْهِمْ آيَاتُ الرّحْمََنِ خَرّواْ سُجّداً وَبُكِيّاً).
- If the reader fears falling into arrogance or showing off, it is preferable to recite quietly. However, if there’s no fear of such feelings, louder recitation is better.
Key etiquettes to adhere to during Quran recitation include pausing during yawning to honor the Quran, lifting the Mus’haf to avoid disrespect, crying or trying to do so in recitation, stopping at verses of mercy to request Allah’s grace, and seeking refuge regarding verses of admonition. Reading should be carried out with contemplation and beauty, taking care to articulate the meanings deeply.
General Etiquettes Related to Quranic Recitation
Numerous general etiquettes must be observed by the Quran reader, which include:
- Adhering to its teachings and applying them across all facets of life. The Quran emphasizes this in numerous verses, such as: (فَلَا وَرَبِّكَ لَا يُؤْمِنُونَ حَتَّى يُحَكِّمُوكَ فِيمَا شَجَرَ بَيْنَهُمْ ثُمَّ لَا يَجِدُوا فِي أَنْفُسِهِمْ حَرَجًا مِمَّا قَضَيْتَ وَيُسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا).
- Honoring the Quran by memorizing it and acting upon its teachings, ensuring nothing is placed on top of it or given to those who do not recognize its value, such as non-Muslims or young children who do not comprehend it.
- Consistently reading books that explain its verses and meanings, inquiring from experts on interpretations, and applying its lessons in real life, for the Quran serves as a guide for living.
- Engaging in frequent remembrance of Allah (SWT), expressing gratitude, placing trust in Him, seeking His assistance, and exhibiting detachment from worldly matters.
- Observing God’s presence in all situations, shunning sinful acts and forbidden desires.
- Exhibiting humility toward the less fortunate and avoiding arrogance or vanity. Ibn Mas’ood (RA) advised that a bearers of the Quran should stand out by their night vigil when others are asleep, their fasting while others eat, their weeping when others laugh, and their silence amid chatter.
The Quran reader should embody the moral values of the Quran throughout their life, emphasizing the significance of understanding its directives, interpreting its verses, and being conscious of Allah both in private and public spheres, while steering clear of sinful actions and unlawful desires.