10 Rights of the Quran Every Believer Should Know

Amongst the 10 rights of the Quran we will go through today, the first is its proper recitation. The Holy Quran should be recited with Tajweed, which is the art of pronouncing the letters and words correctly. This ensures that the meaning of the verses is preserved, as even a small change in pronunciation can alter the meaning.

The practice of Tajweed is not just about pronunciation; it is a means to engage deeply with the words of Allah, ensuring that our recitation is a form of worship in itself (and you as a Muslim are actually rewarded only for reading the Holy Quran). Recitation with Tajweed reflects our respect for the Quran and our commitment to preserving its sanctity.

Rights of the Quran: The Right of Memorization

Memorising the Quran is one of the highest honours a believer can achieve. The Quran is unique in that it is the only book in the world that has been memorised in its entirety by millions of people. People who achieve this feat are known as Hafiz (male) or Hafiza (females).

بَلْ هُوَ ءَايَـٰتٌۢ بَيِّنَـٰتٌۭ فِى صُدُورِ ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمَ ۚ وَمَا يَجْحَدُ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَآ إِلَّا ٱلظَّـٰلِمُونَ

*“Rather, it is clear verses in the hearts of those who have been given knowledge. And none reject Our verses except the wrongdoers.”*  

(Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:49)

But memorising the Quran is not just about retaining the words in your brain, no; it is about embedding the message of the Quran in your very heart. This connection is lifelong, offering spiritual strength and guidance in every aspect of life.

The Right of Contemplation

More than just being read, The Holy Quran was revealed to be understood and contemplated upon. The verses of the Quran are meant to guide us in our daily lives, providing insights into every aspect of human existence. Contemplation, or as it is also known; “Tadabbur”, is crucial for extracting the deeper meanings of the Quran. It transforms recitation into reflection, allowing us to derive lessons that can be applied to our individual lives. 

Rights of the Quran: The Right of Application

The teachings of the Holy Book must be applied in our daily lives. The purpose of the Quran is to guide humanity towards righteousness, and this guidance must manifest in our actions, a step ahead of just reciting/hearing the holy verses. This application of the verses actually in our lives ensures that the divine guidance is not limited to just theory but it also becomes the norm of a Muslim society or commune, ensuring the blessing of peace amongst everyone living in it.

ٱلَّذِينَ يَسْتَمِعُونَ ٱلْقَوْلَ فَيَتَّبِعُونَ أَحْسَنَهُۥٓ ۚ أُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ ٱلَّذِينَ هَدَىٰهُمُ ٱللَّهُ ۖ وَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمْ أُو۟لُوا۟ ٱلْأَلْبَـٰبِ

Those who listen to the Word and follow the best of it, those are the ones Allah has guided, and those are people of understanding.

(Surah Az-Zumar, 39:18)

The Right of Dissemination

The verses of the Holy Quran are universal, that is, they are meant for all of humanity. It is the duty of every Muslim to share the teachings of the Quran with others, ensuring that the divine guidance reaches every corner of the world. In the Holy Book itself, Allah Subhana Va Ta’ala states the same as:

 يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلرَّسُولُ بَلِّغْ مَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَيْكَ مِن رَّبِّكَ ۖ وَإِن لَّمْ تَفْعَلْ فَمَا بَلَّغْتَ رِسَالَتَهُۥ ۚ وَٱللَّهُ يَعْصِمُكَ مِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ ۗ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يَهْدِى ٱلْقَوْمَ ٱلْكَـٰفِرِينَ

O Messenger, proclaim that which has been revealed to you from your Lord, for if you do not, then you have not conveyed His message. And Allah will protect you from the people. Indeed, Allah does not guide the disbelieving people.

(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:67)

Disseminating the Quran’s message is not just about preaching; it is about embodying the Quranic teachings in our lives and encouraging others to do the same. As it has been proven in history and now by science time and time again, people learn when they see other people doing rather than saying it out loud. Embody the Quran in your own actions and you will see how people who look up to you, members of your kin and your friends will begin to follow your actions too, eventually stumbling upon the hidayat in one way or the other. 

Rights of the Quran: The Right of Respect

The respect and grandeur of the Holy Quran is directly derived from the fact that it is the last word of Allah on Earth. Thus, it should be treated with the utmost respect and reverence. This includes physical respect, such as keeping the Quran in a clean place, as well as spiritual respect by adhering to its teachings. Respecting the Quran is a reflection of our respect for Allah. It requires a sincere and humble approach, recognizing the divine nature of the Quran.

The Right of Understanding the Language

To truly grasp the meanings of the Quran, it is essential to understand its original language—Arabic. Learning Arabic enables believers to connect directly with the text, without relying solely on translations. In the modern world that exists now, it is very easy to learn Arabic online without the hassle of going to some place physically! Understanding the Quran’s language deepens our connection with its teachings, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and precision of its verses.

The Right of Following the Sunnah in Interpretation

The Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) provides the best explanation of the Quran. Following the Sunnah in interpreting the Quran ensures that we understand the Quran in the way it was intended to be understood. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as a living example of the Quran, and his actions and sayings provide valuable context to the verses. By adhering to the Sunnah, we as the believers can avoid misinterpretations and stay true to the authentic teachings of Islam. The Prophet’s life serves as a guide, illustrating how the Quran’s teachings should be applied in various situations as made evident by the Holy Book itself.

وَمَآ أَنزَلْنَا عَلَيْكَ ٱلْكِتَـٰبَ إِلَّا لِتُبَيِّنَ لَهُمُ ٱلَّذِى ٱخْتَلَفُوا۟ فِيهِ ۙ وَهُدًۭى وَرَحْمَةًۭ لِّقَوْمٍۢ يُؤْمِنُونَ
“And We have not sent down to you the Book [O Muhammad] except for you to make clear to them that wherein they have differed and as guidance and mercy for a people who believe

The Right of Utilising Resources for Learning

In the modern age, the accessibility of Quranic knowledge has vastly improved through online platforms. These resources, such as online Quran classes, Tajweed tutorials, and Tafsir lectures, make it easier for Muslims around the world to learn and understand the Quran. Leveraging online resources allows believers to continuously grow in their understanding of the Quran, regardless of their geographic location. It is essential to ensure that these resources are authentic and in line with traditional Islamic scholarship.

Rights of the Quran: The Right of Sharing Knowledge

Sharing the knowledge of the Quran is an obligation for every Muslim. Whether through teaching, writing, or simply discussing the Quran’s teachings with others, spreading the message is a way to fulfil our duty towards the Quran. Healthy discussions like this ensure that its guidance reaches others and becomes a source of collective benefit for the Muslim community.

Conclusion

These ten fundamental rights of the Quran highlight the profound responsibilities we hold as believers. The Quran is not just a text to be read; it is a guide that demands active engagement, reflection, and application. By fulfilling these rights, we ensure that the Quran remains a living, breathing part of our lives, guiding us towards success in this world and the hereafter.

FAQs

Q1: What are the fundamental rights of the Quran every Muslim should know?
A: The fundamental rights of the Quran include:

1. 1. Proper recitation with Tajweed

1. 1. Memorization of the Quran

1. 1. Understanding its language

1. 1. Reflecting on its verses

1. 1. Applying its teachings

1. 1. Respecting and glorifying the Quran

1. 1. Following the Sunnah in interpretation

1. 1. Utilising resources for learning

1. 1. Disseminating its message, and

1. 1. Sharing Quranic knowledge.

Q2: Why is reciting the Quran with Tajweed important?
A: Reciting the Quran with Tajweed ensures that the words are pronounced correctly, preserving the meaning and sanctity of the verses. Tajweed rules help in maintaining the beauty and rhythm of the Quran, as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Q3: How can one memorise the Quran more effectively?
A: Effective memorization of the Quran involves consistent practice, breaking the text into manageable sections, repetition, and seeking Allah’s help for strength and focus. Utilising memorization techniques like visualisation and engaging in regular revision also aid in retention.

Q4: How should one apply Quranic teachings in daily life?

A: Applying Quranic teachings involves living by its principles, such as honesty, kindness, justice, and compassion. It also means adhering to the commands and prohibitions outlined in the Quran, making decisions in line with its guidance, and embodying its values in interactions with others.