Shortly after embracing Islam, I encountered my first Quran teacher, a memory still vivid in my mind. Her initial question, “Do you know how to read Quran?”, marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in my spiritual journey. Upon my admission of unfamiliarity, her eyes lit up with enthusiasm. Taking my hand, she declared with unwavering conviction, “I will teach you.”
Initially, I hesitated, feeling unprepared and overwhelmed by the multitude of new experiences in my life as a new Muslim. I voiced my need for more time to adjust, but my teacher’s resolve was unshaken. She firmly stated that learning to read the Quran was not merely an option but a personal obligation that should be undertaken with urgency. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of not only learning for myself but also preparing to impart this sacred knowledge to others. From that day forward, our lessons commenced, meeting twice weekly within the serene ambiance of a campus mosque in Jogjakarta, Indonesia.
The Foundational Chapters and the Arabic Alphabet
Each morning, I would eagerly anticipate our Quran class, arriving at the mosque early. My teacher consistently ensured I was in a state of ritual purity before we began, underscoring the sanctity of the learning process. Our initial sessions focused on memorizing the three pivotal short chapters of the Quran. The task of memorization, a skill dormant since my high school days of poetry recitation, was now intertwined with the unfamiliar yet beautiful Arabic alphabet. I recall driving home, my voice softly reciting, attempting to commit these chapters to memory, a completely novel experience.
To familiarize me with the Arabic script, my teacher employed a method that initially seemed unconventional: repetitive writing. She instructed me to write each letter hundreds of times. While initially perplexing, the wisdom behind this practice soon became clear. This meticulous exercise ingrained each letter in my mind, my hand becoming accustomed to their forms, my eyes recognizing them with ease. The Arabic letters gradually became an intrinsic part of my consciousness.
The “Iqra’” Method and the Essence of Tajweed
Our learning journey was facilitated by a booklet titled “Iqra’,” meaning “Read!” – a widely recognized guide for learning Quran reading in Indonesia. This methodology delves into the Islamic science of Tajweed, the rules governing proper Quranic recitation. Various cultures and regions utilize similar Tajweed guides. I found the “Iqra’” book invaluable, complementing my teacher’s explanations and providing a structured approach to learning.
However, I must emphasize that relying solely on a Tajweed guide for self-study is not advisable. The true understanding of Arabic letter pronunciation is best acquired through direct instruction from a qualified teacher. Observing the teacher’s articulation, witnessing the formation of letters with their mouth, and listening attentively to their recitation are crucial elements in mastering correct pronunciation.
While some Arabic letters bear resemblance to sounds in other languages, others demand dedicated practice. Indeed, achieving perfect pronunciation for every letter may be an ongoing endeavor. Patience and perseverance are paramount in this learning process.
Cultivating Patience and Consistent Practice
Mastering the Arabic alphabet, including the diverse forms letters assume when connected, required considerable time and patience. Progress felt incremental, and my eagerness to begin reading the Quran in its entirety grew with each lesson.
Recognizing my impatience, my teacher wisely supplemented our lessons with additional short chapters for memorization, chapters that could be readily recited during prayers. One significant challenge I encountered was discerning between short and long vowels. I would often pause mid-reading, contemplating the subsequent letter, a habit that could inadvertently alter the meaning of words, as my teacher explained. She advised that it was preferable to stop and restart rather than risk mispronunciation. I diligently strived to adhere to this guidance.
The Power of Listening to Quranic Recitation
Listening to the melodious recitation of the Quran proved immensely beneficial in refining my reading skills, particularly in accurately distinguishing between short and long vowels. Once I grasped the fundamentals of Tajweed and could connect the Arabic letters fluently, I made it a practice to immerse myself in Quranic recitation as often as possible. I even played Quran recitations softly as I slept, intending to subconsciously absorb the correct pronunciation and rhythm. This practice profoundly impacted my recitation abilities, Alhamdulillah.
I focused on listening to a single reciter whose voice resonated with me and whose pronunciation I could readily follow and emulate.
The Journey of Continuous Improvement
My time in Indonesia eventually concluded, and I returned to my home country. However, the invaluable advice from my teacher remained etched in my memory. She urged me to continuously strive to improve my Quran reading. “Learn from various teachers,” she advised, “refine your pronunciation, for there are undoubtedly teachers more proficient than myself.”
This counsel became my guiding principle. I continued my Tajweed studies with different instructors, diligently working to improve my pronunciation of challenging letters and enhance my overall fluency. It is a continuous journey, one where I do not perceive an endpoint. I am aware of my areas for improvement and actively work towards refining them.
Memorizing portions of Allah’s magnificent book is an integral part of this ongoing effort. I recall another teacher emphasizing that Quran memorization is attainable for everyone, at least in intention and dedicated effort, InshaAllah (God willing).
Embracing Our Obligation to Teach
Allah’s plans for us are often unforeseen, and we must always be prepared to contribute to our Muslim community and broader society. Teaching Tajweed was never part of my envisioned path. I always believed others possessed superior Quran reading abilities. Yet, nearly a decade after my initial lessons, my teacher’s early insight materialized.
When my local circle of convert sisters found themselves without a Quran teacher, they approached me as a temporary replacement until a permanent instructor could be found. It was in this moment that the true depth of my first teacher’s wisdom became apparent. Her meticulous instruction in Tajweed rules and her encouragement for continued learning beyond the basics had prepared me for this very moment. It became my personal obligation to impart Tajweed to these women, as there was no one else immediately available to guide them.
Reading as the Gateway to Deeper Understanding
Learning to read the Quran is a truly enriching journey, establishing a direct connection to Allah’s divine words. However, it is crucial to recognize that reading is merely the initial step. Many more stages await, including comprehending the meaning of the Quran and internalizing its profound messages. Our ultimate aspiration should be to progressively integrate the Quran into our daily lives.
Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) embodied the Quran in his very being. Let us strive to emulate his example to the best of our abilities.
Incorporating daily Quran reading into our routine is a vital aspect of this endeavor. Set personal daily goals and gradually increase the amount you read over time.
May Allah make it easy for all of us to read His book, to cherish His book, and to engage with it as much as possible. Ameen.
(From Discovering Islam’s archive.)
