Reading the Quran with transliteration means using letters from another language to write the Arabic words. Beginners who cannot yet read Arabic may turn to it, but incorrect pronunciation can change the meaning. Learning the Arabic script and pronouncing its letters correctly should remain the focus.
Why is pronunciation a concern with transliteration?
Reading Arabic words through non-Arabic letters may lead to pronunciation errors that change or distort the meaning of a verse. The concern is whether you are pronouncing the Quran's words correctly, even when the transliteration looks familiar.
Focus on accuracy rather than getting through a passage quickly. If you cannot yet read the Arabic text, our guide to Quran classes for beginners offers a starting point for learning to read it.
What is the scholarly view cited on transliteration?
According to some scholars, it is not permissible for a Muslim to recite the Quran without knowing how to pronounce its letters in Arabic. Their guidance is to learn the Arabic script in order to recite it correctly.
Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said:
“It is not permissible for a person to recite the reading Quran incorrectly… a person has to recite the Quran correctly, even if it takes him five minutes to recite one word, or a quarter of an hour, while he is pronouncing it until he pronounces it in a correct way; this is more appropriate than him reciting it incorrectly; this is the obligation because the Quran is not the words of human beings, it is the words of Allaah Almighty. If you utter it incorrectly and in a manner that was not taught to us by the Prophet then it means that you falsified the words of Allaah, while falsifying the words of Allaah is forbidden. There are not the words of a human being that one is reporting its meaning …., so a person must take his time and read slowly even if he repeats the same word several times until he pronounces it correctly; this is what he is obliged to do.”
Where should you begin with Arabic recitation?
Begin with the Arabic alphabet and learning to read the Arabic script. For your early recitation practice, start with Al-Fatiha and short surahs rather than rushing through longer passages.
- Surah Al-Fatiha: it is recited in every rak'ah of salah.
- Short surahs from Juz Amma: Al-Falaq, An-Nas, Al-Ikhlas and Al-Kawthar are examples commonly recited in prayers.
Read slowly and return to words you find difficult. The emphasis in the guidance above is on pronouncing a word correctly, even when it needs to be repeated.
For structured support, Murouj Academy offers one-to-one Qaida classes for beginners and Tajweed classes. You can choose your Quran teacher and work on the Arabic reading or pronunciation you need help with.
Frequently asked questions
Is transliteration the same as a translation?
No. Transliteration writes Arabic words using letters from another language; a translation conveys their meaning. Reading a transliteration and reflecting on the meaning are different tasks.
What should I do if I keep mispronouncing a word?
Slow down and repeat it carefully rather than continuing with an incorrect pronunciation. The scholarly guidance quoted above gives accuracy priority over speed.
How can I reflect on the Quran while learning to read it?
Read the meanings and take time to reflect while working on reading the Arabic text correctly. Allah says in Surah Muhammad:
“Then do they not reflect upon the Qur’an, or are there locks upon their hearts.”
If you are also exploring the foundations of your faith, see our guide to learning about Islam for beginners.
