The Quran is the holy book of Islam, revealed by Allah to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through Gabriel to guide people. Muslims turn to it for guidance, recite it, study its meaning and memorize its verses. Beginners can use an English translation to help understand its message while learning to read it in Arabic.
Why is the Quran important in Islam?
The Quran is a guide for Muslims and a source of Islamic teachings. Reading it and understanding its message help Muslims learn what Allah teaches and seek closeness to Him.
Its meaning is central to that learning. Alongside reciting the words, learners study the guidance within its chapters and verses and reflect on how it relates to their lives.
Who wrote the Quran?
Muslims believe the Quran is the word of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through Gabriel over 23 years. The Prophet ﷺ recited the revelation, and people who could write recorded the verses.
Those who wrote down the verses were scribes, or writers of the revelation. The verses recorded during the period of revelation were later brought together into a book. This distinguishes the source of the Quran—revelation from Allah—from the work of the people who recorded it.
Further reading: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Revelation.
Can beginners read the Quran in English?
An English translation can help beginners understand the Quran's message as they start learning to read it in Arabic. It gives English-speaking learners a way to explore the meaning while developing their Arabic reading.
Understanding, recitation and memorization are different learning goals. A beginner looking to understand the message may therefore need a different starting point from someone focusing on pronunciation or memorizing verses.
How can you start learning the Quran?
Start by choosing what you want to work on: reading, correct recitation, understanding or memorization. Then choose lessons that fit that goal and your current level.
The course options below address different learning needs:
| Your learning goal | Relevant course |
|---|---|
| Begin learning to read Arabic | Qaida classes for beginners |
| Improve Quran recitation and pronunciation | Tajweed classes |
| Focus on memorizing the Quran | Quran memorization course |
| Study the Arabic language | Standard Arabic course |
| Help a child learn about Islam | Islamic studies for kids |
Online lessons let you study from home. At Murouj Academy, classes are one-to-one, and students or parents choose their teacher. Explore the available courses or meet the Quran teachers to find a suitable starting point.
Keep reading
- The meaning of the Quran
- Manners of reading the Quran
- The Quran and community
- Why we learn the Quran
Frequently asked questions
Is Quran learning only for people who are new to Islam?
No. People who are new to Islam and those who have been Muslim for years may both want to improve their reading, understand the Quran better or begin memorizing it.
Can adults study the Quran alongside work?
Online learning can make it easier to study from home around work or other commitments. Choose lessons with a schedule that fits your responsibilities.
What is the difference between Tajweed and memorization?
Tajweed focuses on correct Quran recitation and pronunciation. Memorization focuses on learning the verses by heart.
