If you’re struggling to read the Quran, especially if you’re not a native Arabic speaker, you’re not alone. Many Muslims around the world face challenges when learning to recite the Quran, mispronouncing words, reading slowly, or feeling discouraged.
But here’s the uplifting truth: struggling to read the Quran brings you great reward, as promised by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
What Does Islam Say About Struggling to Read the Quran?
One of the most comforting and motivating teachings in Islam comes from this well-known hadith:
Arabic:
“الماهرُ بالقرآنِ مع السَّفَرةِ الكِرامِ البررةِ، والذي يقرَأُ القرآنَ ويتَتَعْتَعُ فيه، وهو عليه شاقٌّ، له أجرانِ.”
Transliteration:
“Al-māhiru bil-Qur’āni ma‘a as-safarati al-kirāmi al-bararah.Wa alladhī yaqra’u al-Qur’āna wa yata‘ata‘u fīhi wa huwa ‘alayhi shāqqun lahu ajrān.”
English Translation:
“The one who recites the Quran and is proficient in it will be with the noble and righteous scribes (angels); and the one who recites the Quran and struggles while reading it, stammering or stumbling, will have a double reward.”, Sahih Muslim
This hadith about struggling to read the Quran reminds us that Allah rewards not only perfect recitation but also the effort, the patience, and the perseverance of those who try their best despite difficulties.
“And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.” Surah Al-‘Ankabut (69)
Struggling to read the Quran, yet persisting, is a powerful form of striving for Allah’s sake. The act is honored, not just the result.
Read more: How to Learn Quran Recitation?
What Does Double Reward for Struggling Mean?
This hadith is clear: you will receive a double reward if you struggle while reading the Quran. Scholars like Imam Nawawi explain this hadith to mean:
- You earn the reward for reading the Quran itself.
- And an additional reward for enduring hardship and difficulty.
So, if you’re feeling frustrated, slow, or unsure while reading, remember: your struggle is worship. Every time you pause to correct a word, every attempt to pronounce a letter right, is counted and rewarded by Allah.
“Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one good deed as ten hasanah (rewards). I do not say that Alif-Lam-Meem is one letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.”Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi
Even if your recitation is broken or slow, each letter still counts and brings multiplied reward.
Why Is There a Double Reward?
Islam honors sincere effort. When you’re struggling to read the Quran:
- You are worshiping with your tongue, even if it’s slow.
- You are striving with your heart, showing patience and love for Allah’s words.
- You are using your time and energy for something noble and pure.
To turn that sincere effort into steady improvement, many learners find motivation and clarity through the Online Quran Recitation Course, a structured program designed to help you recite the Quran accurately, with guidance that meets you at your level.
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Embarrassed or Defeated?
It’s easy to compare yourself with fluent readers and feel that your efforts are not enough. But Allah sees your sincerity and values it more than fluency. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- The Quran was revealed to guide, not to stress.
- Everyone starts somewhere, even the best reciters were once beginners.
- Your effort itself is ibadah (worship).
As Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small.”, Sahih Bukhari
Consistency is more important than speed or perfection.
Examples from the Companions Struggled Too
The companions of the Prophet ﷺ, many of whom were not originally fluent in Arabic or had to memorize the Quran gradually, serve as an example. Abdullah ibn Mas’ud رضي الله عنه said:
“We used to learn ten verses at a time, and we would not move forward until we had understood and practiced them”, reported by Al-Tabari
Their approach was slow and steady, focused on understanding, not rushing.
And just like the companions, many people today begin their Quran journey with limited Arabic and struggle at first, but with patience and proper support, they grow.
A beautiful example of this can be seen in this short video from Shaykhi Academy, where learners who once couldn’t read Arabic now recite the Quran fluently, proof that with the right guidance, transformation is possible.
Struggling to Read the Quran Is a Sign of Sincerity
If you are searching for hadith about struggling to read the Quran, it likely means that you’re trying, perhaps even frustrated, but you still care. That alone is valuable in Islam. Here’s what your struggle shows:
- A pure intention to connect with the words of Allah.
- A desire to grow spiritually.
- A willingness to put in effort for the sake of Allah.
These are powerful traits in the sight of Allah.
You may also want to read about:
How to Stay Motivated While Learning Quran?
Even though you’re being rewarded for the struggle, it’s still important to stay on track and keep learning. Here are some tips:
- Set a small, consistent schedule, even 5 minutes a day.
- Celebrate small wins, like reading one verse correctly.
- Learn with a qualified teacher who understands your challenges.
- Use transliteration and audio aids to improve pronunciation.
- Make duaa regularly, ask Allah to make it easy for you.
- Apps like Quran Companion can help reinforce what you learn during lessons.
Take the First Step with Shaykhi Academy
You don’t have to go through this journey alone. At Shaykhi Academy, we’ve helped thousands of non-Arabic speakers who once struggled to read the Quran, just like you, build fluency, confidence, and love for the Book of Allah.
Our programs are designed specifically for beginners, with a personalized approach that meets you where you are. Whether you’re just starting to learn Arabic letters or trying to improve your Tajweed, you’ll find a course that fits your needs perfectly.
What makes Shaykhi different?
- Certified teachers who are trained not just in Tajweed, but in teaching it gently and clearly to non-native speakers.
- A focus on slow and steady progress, not pressure or rushing. Every lesson is tailored to your pace and learning style.
- Transparent and affordable subscription plans so you can choose what works best for your schedule and budget.
- A rich learning experience guided by our founders, whose passion for Quran education shapes everything we do.
And if you’re wondering what our students say, you can browse real reviews and video testimonials from learners all over the world who once struggled just like you, and now recite with ease.
Summary
Struggling to read the Quran is not a weakness; it’s an act of worship. According to authentic hadith, those who recite the Quran with difficulty receive double the reward. Allah values your effort, your patience, and your sincerity. Stay consistent, seek support, and trust that every letter you recite brings you closer to Him.
But you don’t have to do it alone. With the right guidance, you can turn struggle into fluency. At Shaykhi Academy, we believe your struggle matters. We’re here to help turn that struggle into steady, sincere recitation, one letter at a time.
