Muslims worldwide, from diverse linguistic backgrounds, engage in reciting the Quran daily. A common inquiry arises regarding the spiritual rewards for individuals who do not understand Arabic and whether the prophetic traditions concerning recitation were directed solely at an Arab audience. Additionally, individuals often seek clarification on the correct volume of recitation when performing daily prayers alone.
Universal Rewards of Recitation
The Quran is a universal message, and the teachings of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) are directed at all of humanity. There is no indication in the Islamic texts that the spiritual rewards of recitation are exclusive to Arabs. The merit of engaging with the scripture encompasses all believers, regardless of their native language.
In fact, striving to read the text in its original language despite linguistic barriers carries immense virtue. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
Those who attempt to read it with difficulty (because of their lack of familiarity with the language) will merit double rewards” (Reported by Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, and At-Tirmidhi).
Furthermore, the fundamental reward for reading the scripture remains applicable to all. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) stated:
“Whoever reads one letter of the Book of Allah, will have one hasanah (reward) for doing so, and every hasanah will be multiplied by 10. 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” (Reported by At-Tirmidhi).
Spiritual Impact and the Arabic Language
Every Muslim can experience the awe and sweetness of the scripture, even without native fluency. It is widely observed in Western and non-Arab majority communities that individuals are deeply moved by the Arabic recitation, sometimes to the point of tears, without comprehending the literal meaning of the verses.
Prominent scholars advise non-Arabs to read the scripture in Arabic to attain the divine reward, while simultaneously reading a reliable translation to grasp its meaning. Additionally, community leaders and imams are strongly encouraged to establish educational programs that teach Arabic, enabling local communities to eventually understand the scripture as comprehensively as native speakers.
Rulings on Recitation Volume During Prayer
Regarding the performance of formal prayers (salah), specific rules govern the volume of recitation whether an individual is praying alone or in a congregation. Prayers are jurisprudentially categorized into silent prayers (as-sirriyyah) and loud prayers (al-jahriyyah).
The silent prayers are Zhuhr and `Asr. If a person is performing these prayers alone, they must recite silently.
The loud prayers include Maghrib, Isha’, Fajr, Tarawih, Tahajjud, Witr, Jumuah, and Eid. Scholars note that Jumuah and Eid prayers are exclusively performed in a congregation. However, if a person is praying Maghrib, Isha’, or Fajr alone, they should recite aloud, but only to the extent that they can hear themselves in a very low voice. Similarly, an individual can recite aloud in this subdued manner when performing voluntary night prayers like Witr and Tahajjud.
