Etiquettes for handling and reading the Holy Quran

The Holy Quran is the most sacred book in the world and is the message from our Creator; the Almighty Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Thus the Holy Quran should be handled and recited with the utmost respect and its message should be given full attention. The more the respect and attention we render to the Holy Quran, the more we will benefit from its blessings. The following is a list of etiquettes to be followed when reading and listening to the verses of the Holy Quran: • One should purify the body (from material impurities) and mind (from evil thoughts and bad intentions) when handling the Holy Quran. • Recitation of the Holy Quran should always be preceded by seeking refuge of Allah سبحانه وتعالى from Shaitan (Satan) by reciting ‘Aoozo billahe minishaitan alrajeem’. • The Holy Quran should be recited in a slow, composed and eloquent style. • The Holy Quran should be recited with utmost concentration as it deserves to be recited. • When reciting the verses of the Holy Quran, one should ponder on its meanings. • When listening to the Holy Quran, one should have full belief in the authenticity of this noble book. • At reciting the verses of the Holy Quran where prostration is prescribed, one should prostrate. • Listening to the verses of the Holy Quran attentively, when it is recited, attracts the mercy of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. • One should not deny the verses of the Holy Quran even if one does not understand the meanings. Denying the revelations from Allah سبحانه وتعالى in haste without understanding its meaning was the habit of disbelievers of the past nations. • Never be part of any gathering of people who are making a mockery of the verses of the Holy Quran. This act attracts the anger of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. • If one understands the real meanings of the verses of the Holy Quran, it will make one cry out and bow in prostration. • If the Holy Quran is recited with concentration, the heart will soften and will become inclined to submission to the will of Allah سبحانه وتعالى.