Can the Qur’an Be Read Without Understanding?

Question

If I don’t understand Arabic, is it still okay to read the Qur’an?

Bottom Line

Yes. Every letter earns a reward, but the Qur’an’s true power is unlocked when you reflect on its meanings.

Quick Answer

Reciting the Qur’an is valid worship, even without knowing Arabic. The Prophet ﷺ said each letter recited brings ten rewards. Still, Allah urges us to reflect, understand, and act. The best approach: keep reciting, but also use tafseer, translations, and reliable resources to grow closer to its guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Reciting without understanding is rewarded, but reflection multiplies the benefit.
• Allah commands pondering the Qur’an, not just reciting it.
• Tafseer, Arabic learning, and trusted teachers help bridge the gap.

Detailed Answer

Recitation of the Qur’an is worship in itself, even without full comprehension. The Prophet ﷺ said that every letter recited earns ten good deeds. Yet the Qur’an was revealed not just to be read, but to be pondered and lived by.

Allah says:

“This is a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, so that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded.”

Qur’an 38:29

He also warns:

“Do they not then reflect upon the Qur’an, or are their hearts locked up?”

Qur’an 47:24

Scholars such as Shaykh Ibn Baz explained: recitation without understanding is valid and rewarded, but a Muslim should strive to study tafseer, learn Arabic, and ask scholars, so the Qur’an can shape belief and action.

Balancing Recitation and Reflection

– Recite regularly, even if you don’t understand every word.
– Use translations as an aid, but go further with tafseer works like Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Tafsir al-Tabari, or Tafsir al-Muyassar.
– Modern platforms like Quranly and Bayyinah TV make reflection more accessible.

Practical Guidance

During times like Ramadan, many Muslims complete recitation without fully understanding. This is valid, but complementing it with reflection even on a few verses daily brings deeper change.

What This Means for You

Keep reading the Qur’an, every letter counts. But also invest time in understanding, using tafseer, lectures, or apps. That way, the Qur’an won’t just be words you recite, but it becomes guidance you live by.

And Allah knows best.

References

Primary Sources

Qur’an

1. Qur’an 38:29: Revealed to be pondered and acted upon.
2. Qur’an 47:24: Reflection is required; neglect locks the heart.

Scholarly Sources

3. Ibn Baz, Majmu‘ Fatawa: Permissibility of reciting without understanding, with encouragement to study tafseer and Arabic.

Modern Research & Reports

4. Clinical Review (2023): Qur’an recitation reduces anxiety, stress, and depression.
5. Cognitive Neuroscience Study: Memorization enhances memory, attention, and fluency.
6. Malaysian Study: Qur’an memorization linked to higher serotonin, IQ, and well-being.