As a non-Arab Muslim, I comprehend your deep desire to learn Arabic to understand the Quran. Although many Quran translations are now available for non-native Muslims, none of them can be as pleasant and soothing as the original book revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).
In this article, we will explore together the Importance of learning Quranic Arabic in addition to the most efficient methods to learn Arabic to understand the holy Quran.
Learning the Arabic language to Understand the Quran
Learning Arabic is essential for fully grasping the Quran’s original message, as translations may not capture the depth and beauty of the original Arabic text. The Arabic language, chosen by Allah for the Quran, offers a direct connection to the teachings and wisdom within its verses.
Understanding Quranic Arabic allows Muslims to strengthen their faith, fulfill religious duties, and deepen their connection to the divine message. Through a structured approach, beginning with the alphabet and progressing to grammar, vocabulary, and rhetoric, one can gradually unlock the profound meanings of the Quran.
To truly understand the Quran, it’s recommended to start with the basics—learning the Arabic alphabet, grammar, and vocabulary, then progressing to more complex aspects like rhetoric and the unique characteristics of Quranic language. This journey, while challenging, is ultimately rewarding as it brings one closer to the divine message.
The importance of learning Arabic to understand the Quran
The original sources of the Islamic religion, including the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the prophet Muhammad (Peace And Blessings Be Upon Him), can only be understood by understanding the Arabic language.
Hence, it is necessary for Muslim who wants to learn the Islamic religion to add to that by learning the Arabic language, consequently, the rich and wide Islamic culture will open up to them.
1. Understanding the Quranic language is your way to piety
Allah the Almighty has honored the Arabic language by making it the language of the Quran. As he (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) described the Holy Quran in Surah “Al-Zumar, verse 28” saying:
“قُرْآنًا عَرَبِيًّا غَيْرَ ذِي عِوَجٍ لَّعَلَّهُمْ يَتَّقُونَ”
“An Arabic Quran, without any crookedness (therein) in order that they may avoid all evil which Allah has ordered them to avoid, fear Him and keep their duty to Him.”
2. Learning the language of the Quran is an Islamic duty
As narrated by Omar Ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) that he said,
“Learn Arabic, it is from your religion”
and therefore, it is the duty of Muslims to understand the Arabic language because it is the basis for understanding the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet, and also a necessity to maintain the delivery of Allah’s sublime message and Islamic purposes, in addition to strengthening the brotherly bond between Muslims.
How to learn Arabic to understand the Quran?
Now, the question is, “How can I learn Arabic to understand the Quran?” Here is a stepwise approach that might help you learn Arabic to understand the Quran.
1. Learn the Arabic Alphabet of the Quran
In the beginning, you should learn the Arabic Alphabet, and the associated diacritic marks referring to voweled letters. Do not worry, this is actually an easy task!
If you are wondering How to learn the Arabic alphabet of the Quran? Let me give you a brief introduction to the Arabic alphabet.
The Arabic language consists of 28 letters, three of which represent the long vowels, while short vowels are referred to by marks that accompany the Quranic script known as fathah, Dammah and Kasrah. The figure below demonstrates the 28 letters of the Arabic alphabet.
2. Learn Grammar for the Quran
Now, let me tell you how to learn Arabic grammar for the Quran. Supposing that you know nothing about the Arabic language except reading it. You can read it easily, but you can’t comprehend it. So, you need to learn Arabic grammar to understand the Holy Quran.
I strongly recommend that you scroll through Shaykhi’s blog posts, where you can find abundant Arabic grammar educational resources.
3. Learn Quranic Vocabulary
Quranic vocabulary can differ slightly from the vocabulary usually used in modern standard Arabic. However, once you become familiar with the words commonly used in the Quran, it becomes easier for you to comprehend the verses. Here are some of the most commonly used Quranic vocabulary with their correct pronunciation and meaning.
| Word | Transliteration | Translation |
| الْجَنَّة | Al-jannah | Heaven |
| النَّار | An-nar | Hellfire |
| الإنسَان | Al-insan | Mankind |
| الْمُؤمِنُون | Al-Mo’minoun | The believers |
| الَّرحِيم | Ar-raheem | The most merciful (Allah) |
| الرَّسُول | Ar-rasoul | The Prophet |
| رَبُّ | Rabbu | Lord |
4. Learn Arabic Rhetoric
The Quranic script is rich in eloquent expressions. This makes it critical for Quran learners to understand the basics of Arabic Rhetoric in order to understand the verses.
Arabic Rhetoric (البَلَاغة الْعَرَبِيَّة), is derived from the verb “بَلَغَ”, which means to reach the end of something. Learning Arabic rhetoric entails studying these three sub-categories.
- Ilm al-Ma’ani
- ‘Ilm al-Bayan
- ‘Ilm al-Badi’
5. Understand the characteristics of the Quranic language
Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) chose the Arabic language for His Final Testament for a wise reason: its unique suitability for this purpose. Well-known for its accuracy and precision, Arabic stands out as unparalleled. Given that the Quran serves as a comprehensive life manual, precision and accuracy in the expression of its laws and commands are of extreme importance.
6. Start with Short Surahs
Additionally, I recommend that you start with learning the last pages of the Quran where the verses are much shorter and way easier for you to understand. Then move to longer Surahs when you get used to the Quranic text.
If I learn Arabic will I understand the Quran?
No doubt that learning Arabic is important to deeply understand the Holy Quran. However, even Arab Muslims may find it difficult to fully understand the Quranic language. This makes it crucial to ask for the guidance of a knowledgeable Sheikh. Since Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala said in Surah Al-Anbiya’a, verse 7:
(وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَا قَبْلَكَ إِلَّا رِجَالًا نُّوحِي إِلَيْهِمْ ۖ فَاسْأَلُوا أَهْلَ الذِّكْرِ إِن كُنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ﴾
[ الأنبياء: 7]
“And We sent not before you, [O Muhammad], except men to whom We revealed [the message], so ask the people of the message if you do not know”.
Which means that a Muslim should always seek knowledge from trusted scholars who are acquainted with the Shari’ah rules and purposes.
How to Reach the Quran Understanding?
Understanding the Quran is the ultimate goal of all Muslims, no matter their level in the Arabic language. So, even if you are still a beginner Arabic learner, there are many ways that can help you reach the level of Quran understanding that enables you to perform worship and benefit from Allah’s guidance in the divine book. Here is a piece of advice for you.
1. Supplicate to Allah
First and foremost, supplication to Allah and purification of your intention to understand the divine words, is absolutely indispensable.
Therefore, those whose intentions are insincere will get no benefit from the Quran. Consequently, they will fail to benefit from its teachings. Since merely reading the Arabic Quran is not enough; true understanding depends on one’s sincerity.
2. Read Quran Translations
While you are in your early Arabic learning phase, you can still comprehend the meanings of the Quranic verses by reading one of the available translations in your native language. Although they do not convey the full message as the original language of the Quran they are beneficial as an initial step.
- ClearQuran website is one example of the available online English Quran translations.
- The Quranic Arabic Corpus is another useful website providing word-by-word translation of the Quran
3. Listen to Muslim scholars’ Quran explanations
In order to understand the Quran you can navigate the Internet for Quran explanations presented by trusted Muslim scholars. These explanations are available in many languages that can help you explore the Meanings of Quranic verses.
4. Attend Quran interpretation Classes (Quran Tafseer Classes)
Joining Quran interpretation classes is a good way to reflect on the meanings of the verses and acquire a deep understanding of the wisdom behind each Ayah. Even if you do not have enough time to attend in-person classes you can benefit from joining specialized online Quran Tafseer Classes, which are now considered a more convenient as well as affordable option for new Muslims.
Check out Shaykhi’s wide range of Quran and Arabic language classes, for more!
5. Read the Quran every day
For Muslims, the Quran is considered the go-to manual of their faith, and the primary source of legislation and guidance. Hence, it is crucial to immerse in its teachings by reading it on a daily basis.
Each time you repeat a Surah of the Quran enables you to gain deeper insights into its wisdom and greatness.
The first word of the Quran revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) was
ٱقۡرَأۡ بِٱسۡمِ رَبِّكَ ٱلَّذِي خَلَقَ (1) خَلَقَ ٱلۡإِنسَٰنَ مِنۡ عَلَقٍ (2) ٱقۡرَأۡ وَرَبُّكَ ٱلۡأَكۡرَمُ (3) ٱلَّذِي عَلَّمَ بِٱلۡقَلَمِ (4) عَلَّمَ ٱلۡإِنسَٰنَ مَا لَمۡ يَعۡلَمۡ (5)
“Read, in the name of your Lord, who created. He created man from an embryo. Read, and your Lord, Most Exalted. Teaches, using the pen. He teaches man what he never knew.”
Although these verses were initially revealed to Muhammad, they are also directed to us, Muslims. God is addressing all Muslims, in this verse. Therefore, reading the Quran is a crucial part of any Muslim’s life.
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To sum up!
Learning Arabic to understand the Quran may be a challenging journey, however, there is no doubt that it is a fruitful and rewarding experience.
Even if you are still at the beginning of your Arabic learning journey, you can still benefit from the guidance of the holy Quran by purifying your intention, supplicating to Allah, listening to Quran explanations by knowledgeable scholars, and reading the translation of the Quran in your native language.
However, Since no other script can be parallel to Allah’s original words, it is recommended to follow some easy steps to help you learn Arabic and understand the Quran.
First of all, learning the Arabic Alphabet should be the first step on your way to learning Arabic and understanding the Quran. After that, you can start learning the basic Arabic grammar and vocabulary.
Then, proceed with studying Arabic rhetoric and the characteristics of the Quranic language. It is recommended to start with the easy Surahs at the end of the Mushaf and gradually move to longer ones as you progress.
Shaykhi Academy is always glad to be in your company on the way. Navigate our website to learn more about our Arabic language and Quran online courses, don’t hesitate to reach out to us in case you have any inquiries.
