February 26, 2010 1/364

Many people get intimidated trying to read the Qu'ran. It is a good idea to have some understanding of history before one begins this endeavor. I also like to recommend to people to read the book The Four Basic Concepts of Qu'ran, by Madudi. It is out of print, but if you can find a copy it covers four terms Rabb, Ibadah, ilah and tawheed. These are really important to understand, and can help with a better understanding when one starts encountering these concepts.

Try to give yourself a set time everyday to read Qu'ran.  Start with 10 minutes and increase until you are reading at least 30 minutes a day. If a set time everyday is too difficult, be flexible but commit to it. Do not sleep until you have gotten your time in for that day.

Make sure you come to your reading with a clear mind. Make ablution and start. If you have a family and commitments to family cause you delay, make the time to read Qu'ran a reading time for all.

Juz 1
Surah Al - Fatiha  meaning the Opening Chapter

In the name of Allah the Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Praise be to Allah The Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds
Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Master of the Day of Judgement
Thee do we worship and Thine aid do we seek
Show us the straight way
The Way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace,
those whose (portion) is not wrath
And who go not astray

We recite this Surah at least seventeen times a day during the obligatory prayers. The repetition signals a real significance to this surah. Let's think about the words and ponder the wisdom behind them. Tomorrow we can look at them in depth with our own thoughts and associations and the tafseer of others. It is important to have our own connection with Qu'ran and not just absorb others.