Reciting the whole Quran takes about 15-20 hours, usually completed in a month with consistent daily practice. Rushing through the Quran in one day undermines comprehension and spiritual connection, emphasizing the importance of understanding and reflection.
As a Muslim, the Qur’an is the best company you need to keep, on a daily basis, undoubtedly. It is Allah’s Words to you, getting you out of all darknesses, into light:
[It is He ‘Allah’ Who sends down upon His Servant ‘Muḥammad (ﷺ)’ ayahs of clear evidence that He may bring you out from darknesses into the light. And indeed, Allāh is to you Kind and Merciful.] [Al-Hadid: 9].
Yet, you may wonder how long it takes to recite the entire Qur’an, from cover to cover, and what time it actually should take, and more of those questions. Let’s answer some, together!
Table of Contents
What Is the Difference between Reciting The Quran and Reading It?
Keep in mind that reciting Qur’an is way deeper than just reading it! Reading a text doesn’t necessarily indicate that you are understanding it, nor spiritually ‘connected to it’; no need to mention that Qur’an, for sure, is not like any text! It is the Holy, Divine guidelines, leading us, out of darkness, into light. So, when we say ‘recite Qur’an’, definitely, we don’t mean merely ‘to read’ it.
Reciting Qur’an doesn’t refer only to the regular reading of its ayahs, but also articulating them correctly, reflecting on them thoughtfully, and committing yourself to feel them wholeheartedly, and to act accordingly.
Yes, reciting Qur’an, in itself, is a rewarding act of worship, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will be credited with a good deed, and a good deed gets a ten-fold reward. 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.” [At-Tirmidhi]. However, Qur’an is descended not merely to read, but rather to recite, understand right, gain its light, and then, act upon.
How Long Should It Take to Recite the Entire Qur’an?
About 15-20 hours, at a moderate pace. So if you dedicate like 30 minutes a day to reciting the Qur’an attentively, you can complete its recitation in a month, Insha’Allah, or maybe, a little more. Remember “In one month” is the first answer of the Prophet (ﷺ) to that question.
Actually, as a Muslim learning to recite Qur’an correctly, there is no such an ‘obligatory’, time-limit set for that. Yet, a daily engagement with Qur’an is purposefully commanded for keeping the spiritual connection to Allah.
However, there is a guiding answer to such question mentioned in Sunnah; Yazid ibn Abdullah narrated that Abdullah Ibn Amr asked the Prophet (ﷺ):
“In how many days should I complete the recitation of the whole Qur’an, Messenger of Allah?” He replied, (ﷺ): “In one month.” He said: “I am more energetic” (to complete it in a period less than this). He kept on repeating these words, and lessening the period until he (ﷺ) said: “Complete its recitation in seven days.” He again replied: “I am more energetic.” Then, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “He who finishes the recitation of the Qur’an in less than three days does not understand it.” (Sahih- Al-Bani).
So, for the Muslims, it is preferable (Mustahab) to complete reciting Qur’an in a reasonable period (from a month, to 3 days) to be able to understand it well, as this is the point, not just reading it too fast, as if it is just a reading-task!
Why Does It Take Too Much Time To Recite The Quran?
Mastering the Quranic recitation journey may take longer for some due to various factors, including individual differences in learning pace, prior knowledge of Arabic, and personal capacity.
While Abdullah Ibn Amr, an Arabic-native, may have grasped the Quran’s intricacies more swiftly, those unfamiliar with Arabic face a steeper learning curve.
Embracing this reality and dedicating oneself to the journey, regardless of the time it takes, is essential. Allah rewards sincere efforts, as emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who promised dual rewards for those who struggle to recite the Quran to the best of their ability.
Therefore, patience, perseverance, and sincere intention are key to progressing on the path of Quranic recitation, even if it means a longer journey to mastery.
So, once you are taking your steps in the Qur’an-learning journey, accept willingly that you may take longer time to complete reciting, and understanding Qur’an. It is totally okay, as long as you are doing your best. Allah Almighty even rewards you for your exerted efforts; the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The one who is proficient in the recitation of the Qur’an will be with the honorable and obedient scribes (angels) and he who recites the Qur’an and finds it difficult to recite, doing his best to recite it in the best way possible, will have two rewards.” (Sahih- Bukhari, and Muslim)
How to Enhance your recitation journey?
Enhance your Quranic recitation journey by establishing a daily routine, setting achievable goals, and prioritizing quality over quantity. Seek guidance, reflect on verses, and embrace patience, trusting in Allah’s assistance and valuing every sincere effort made.
1. Daily Recitation Routine:
Commit to a daily Quranic recitation routine, aligning with your pace and schedule. Follow the Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) advice to perform consistent acts of worship, even if they’re small, as Allah values steadfastness.
2. Set Achievable Goals:
Start with realistic goals based on your capacity and learning pace. Whether it’s reciting a few pages daily or completing a juzu’ (20 pages) per day, set targets that you can comfortably achieve.
Remember that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“O people, perform such acts as you are capable of doing, for Allah does not grow weary but you will get tired. The acts most pleasing to Allah are those which are done continuously, even if they are small.” (Sahih, Muslim)
3. Consistency:
Consistently recite Quranic verses before and after each prayer, maximizing opportunities for spiritual growth throughout the day. Establishing a routine fosters discipline and ensures regular engagement with the Quran.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Allah says:
When a servant of Mine draws near to Me a span, I draw near to him a cubit; and if he draws near to Me a cubit, I draw near to him a fathom. And if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.” (Al-Bukhari)
4. Quality over Quantity:
Focus on the quality of your recitation rather than the quantity. Pay attention to proper pronunciation, Tajweed rules, and understanding the meanings of verses, aiming for a deep and meaningful connection with the Quran.
Reflect and Contemplate: Take time to reflect on the verses you recite, pondering their meanings and relevance to your life. Engage in Tafsir studies to deepen your understanding of Quranic concepts and themes, enhancing your recitation experience.
5. Seek Guidance:
Seek guidance from knowledgeable teachers or mentors to improve your recitation skills and address any challenges you encounter. Embrace opportunities for learning and growth, humbly seeking assistance from those more experienced in Quranic studies.
6. Patience and Perseverance:
Embrace patience and perseverance on your recitation journey, knowing that progress takes time and effort. Trust in Allah’s mercy and guidance, understanding that every sincere effort is valued and rewarded.
Divine Assistance: Trust in Allah’s promise to draw near to those who draw near to Him. Approach your recitation journey with sincerity and devotion, knowing that Allah appreciates every step taken towards Him, no matter how small.
Can I learn Quran recitation on my own?
For sure, you can set your own schedule, according to your own learning pace, capacity, and dedicated daily time. That is totally fine and all good but it may take a very longer time than asking a specialized tutor to help you.
Allah is there, witnessing you doing your best to get near to Him, and that what really counts.
Is It Possible to Recite Qur’an in One Day?
Technically, it may be possible to just recite or read the entire Qur’an in one, all day. Yet, why so?! Reciting Qur’an that fast is totally pointless, as the Prophet (ﷺ), himself, said:
“He who finishes the recitation of the Qur’an in less than three days does not understand it.” (Sahih- Al-Bani).
Again, Qur’an is not a reading-task that we rush ourselves to finish! The Holy Qur’an is our Lord’s message to us, which we really need to understand to the fullest, so that we can then act upon it properly, in a deliberate, reasonable, attentive way, pleasing to Allah Almighty.
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- Online Quran Classes For Kids
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Conclusion
In summary, reciting the Quran typically takes about 15-20 hours at a moderate pace, translating to a month of consistent daily recitation. However, the duration may vary based on individual learning pace and prior knowledge of Arabic.
Setting achievable goals, prioritizing quality over quantity, and seeking guidance can enhance the recitation journey. While it’s possible to recite the Quran in one day, rushing through it undermines comprehension and spiritual connection, emphasizing the importance of understanding and reflecting on its verses.
