Understanding the Quran: Benefits, Challenges, and Resources
It is very important to know the meaning while reading the Qur'an. The Qur'an is the sacred scripture of Islam and contains guidance for all aspects of life. Allah says:
ذَٰلِكَ ٱلْكِتَٰبُ لَا رَيْبَ ۛ فِيهِ ۛ هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ“This is the Book (The Quran) about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.” [Quran 2:2]
By understanding the meaning of the Qur'anic verses, one can appreciate the wisdom and beauty of Allah's words, apply them to one's own situation, and follow the commands and teachings of Allah. Some of the benefits of understanding the Qur'an are:
- It helps one to recite the Qur'an properly and avoid mistakes.
- It increases one's faith and devotion to Allah and His Messenger.
- It inspires one to act upon the Qur'an and follow its moral and ethical values.
- It enhances one's knowledge and understanding of Islam and its history, culture, and civilization.
- It connects one with the original sources of Islam and avoids relying on human interpretations or translations.
Therefore, learning the Qur'an with understanding is a great blessing and a duty for every Muslim who wants to attain success in this world and the Hereafter.
Reading the Qur'an without knowing the meaning is permissible and one will still be rewarded for it. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will be credited with a good deed, and a good deed gets a ten-fold reward. I do not say that Alif-Lam-Mim is one letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter and Mim is a letter.” [Tirmidhi]
However, it is not sufficient or ideal for a believer who wants to benefit from the guidance and wisdom of Allah's words. Allah says:
وَنَزَّلْنَا عَلَيْكَ ٱلْكِتَٰبَ تِبْيَٰنًا لِّكُلِّ شَىْءٍ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةً وَبُشْرَىٰ لِلْمُسْلِمِينَ“And, We have sent down to you the Book (The Quran) as clarification for all things and as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the Muslims.” [Quran 16:89]
Reading the Qur'an without understanding its meaning may lead to mistakes in recitation, lack of reflection and application, and missing out on the deeper meanings and lessons of the Qur'an. Therefore, it is recommended and encouraged to read the Qur'an with understanding and to seek help from reliable sources of tafseer (explanation) and Arabic language. This way, one can increase one's faith, knowledge, and devotion to Allah and His Messenger.
One should seek help from reliable sources of tafseer (explanation) when reading the Qur’an with understanding. Some possible ways to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources of tafseer are:
- Check the credentials and qualifications of the author or translator of the tafseer. They should have a sound knowledge of Arabic language, Qur’anic sciences, and Islamic theology.
- Compare different tafseers and see if they agree or differ on the interpretation of the same verse or topic. Look for evidence and reasoning to support their views and avoid those that rely on personal opinions or biases.
- Consult scholars and experts who can guide you to the best and most authentic tafseers available. You can also use online platforms and resources that provide reviews and ratings of various tafseers.
- Avoid tafseers that contain errors, contradictions, distortions, or misrepresentations of the Qur’anic text or message. Also avoid those that promote sectarianism, extremism, or violence in the name of Islam.