Ibn al-Qayyim رَحِمَهُ اللَّهُ said:
“If you want to benefit from the Qur'an, you must concentrate and devote your heart solely when reciting and listening to it.”
[Al-Fawāʾid, p. 1]
Explanation
In this beautiful statement, Ibn al-Qayyim رَحِمَهُ اللَّهُ teaches us that benefiting from the Qur’an requires more than simply reciting its words. A person may read many pages, but the true effect of the Qur’an is only felt when the heart is present and attentive.
It is easy to become distracted while reciting. Thoughts about work, studies, family, or worldly matters can pull our minds away from the words of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Yet the Qur’an was revealed as guidance, mercy, and healing, and its blessings are experienced most by those who pause to reflect upon its meanings.
Allah says:
“This is a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, O Prophet, so that they may contemplate its verses, and people of reason may be mindful.”
[Qur’an 38:29]
The early Muslims understood this well. They did not treat the Qur’an as something to rush through; rather, they would stop at its verses, think deeply about them, and strive to apply them in their daily lives. A single verse, when understood properly, can increase a person's faith, encourage him to repent, or strengthen his trust in Allah.
Benefits of Reflecting Upon the Qur’an
The believer who recites the Qur’an with sincerity and concentration will find many blessings in it. Among its benefits are:
- An increase in faith and certainty.
- Greater love and fear of Allah سبحانه وتعالى.
- Peace and tranquillity in the heart.
- Guidance during difficult times.
- Protection from doubts and temptations.
- Encouragement to perform righteous deeds.
Every person who turns to the Qur’an with an open heart will find that its words speak to his situation and remind him of what truly matters.
Practical Ways to Benefit More from the Qur’an
There are many simple ways to strengthen one's connection with the Qur’an:
- Set aside a specific time each day for recitation.
- Read slowly instead of rushing to complete pages.
- Reflect upon the meanings of the verses.
- Read reliable tafsir alongside your recitation.
- Listen carefully whenever the Qur’an is recited.
- Ask Allah سبحانه وتعالى to grant understanding and sincerity.
Even a small amount of recitation done with reflection can be more beneficial than reading many pages without attention.
Conclusion
Ibn al-Qayyim’s advice is a reminder that the Qur’an was revealed to transform hearts and guide people to what is best. The more a believer concentrates while reciting and listening, the greater his share of its guidance and blessings.
May Allah سبحانه وتعالى make us among those who recite His Book with sincerity, reflect upon its meanings, and act upon its teachings.
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