How can non-Arabic speakers learn Quran?
Learning Quran is the most honorable and virtuous act a Muslim can do in his life. Allah bestows several blessings in this life as well as the life hereafter on those who memorize the Quran. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said “Those who learn the Quran and teach it are the best among you,” (Hadith Al-Bukhari). Therefore, it is important for Muslims to understand that the Qur’an is the doorway to Jannah in the life hereafter as well as happiness and joy in this life.
So to learn Quran, what are the most practical steps that you can get started with?
First, bear in mind that Learning to read Arabic and then the Quran requires a combination of dedication, practice, and guidance. Here are the steps you can take to start learning:
1- Find an expert teacher
It is essential to find a qualified teacher who can guide you through the learning process. Traditionally, people look for a local mosque or Islamic center that offers Quran classes, but what if your time is limited or the Islamic center is away from you, in this case, the mosque won’t be a practical solution. You would better find a reputable online Quran learning platform. Online classes have recently become the best alternative to mosques, especially if you want a type of extensive personalized learning course. The most distinctive about the online courses is that you can select the tutors, and set your schedule at the time appropriate for you. Alkuttab.io. platform offers courses that learners can tailor according to their potential and capabilities.
2- Learn the Arabic language first
Illiteracy of the Arabic language is a challenge in itself as the Quran can’t be recited except in it, the non-speakers of the Arabic language may always have the extra burden of the necessity to learn the Arabic language first. Yet this burden can be relieved gradually. You can start learning the Arabic alphabet which is the foundation of reading the Quran. There are many helpful books and curricula that were designed to help non-Arabs learn the alphabet in an effective way like the Noorani Qaeda and Noor al-Bayan. Both methods are offered online as learning courses on Alkuttab.io. platform.
In a matter of a few months, you can master reading the Arabic alphabet and then Quran.
3- Learn Basic Tajweed Rules
Tajweed is the set of rules for proper pronunciation of the Quran and learning it is crucially essential. Quran is the word of Allah and it is forbidden to make any mistakes that may alternate the meaning of these words, so Tajweed rules were set to help reciters of the Quran avoid making any mistakes. The reciter of the Quran must fully comprehend the rules for proper pronunciation of the Quranic text and be fully aware of some basic rules such as the characteristics of letters, elongations, and pauses positions in the Quran.
4- Start with short Surahs
There are 114 surahs in Quran. These surahs vary in many features including length. There are surahs that are very long, exceeding 40 pages, and surahs that are very short, only two lines. It is advisable for learners to start with short Surahs like Surah Al-Fatiha or Surah Al-Ikhlas since they are easier to memorize.
5- Practice regularly:
Consistency is the key to progress. Allocate some time every day to learn and read the Quran. Also, as we mentioned above Quran courses will help you be more committed and consistent to your Quran learning. Also, set a specific amount or number of verses, like memorizing two to five verses a day. By the end of the week, you would be surprised that you have memorized a surah without great effort, and by the end of the month you will be proud of the progress you have achieved.
6- Review and Retention
Set aside a specific day to review the all verses you have memorized during the week. Look for a partner with whom you can read the Quran by heart and go on the journey of memorizing the Quran.
Remember, learning to read the Quran is a lifelong journey, and it takes time and patience. Stay committed and seek guidance from Allah throughout the process.