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Understanding the Meaning of Recitations: More Than Just the Beauty of Reading the Koran

Heri Mahbub

October 4, 2024

Quoting from the KBBI (Great Indonesian Dictionary), tilawah (recitation) is the reading (of verses of the Quran) well and beautifully. In fact, the KBBI's explanation is incomplete, equating it with the term qiraah, which refers to simply reading, without emphasizing the meaning, function, and purpose of the Quran as a guide.

Enjoying the Beauty of the Creation of the Universe by Reciting the Quran

When Muslims finish reading the Quran , they often say, "I have recited the Quran," but rarely do they say, "I have performed the Qiraah." Especially during Ramadan, there's another term called tadarus . While both terms mean reading the Quran, there's a significant difference in meaning.

Tilawah has a deeper meaning, specifically related to reciting the words of Allah, not simply the act of reading like qiraah. However, does tilawah simply mean reading without understanding and practice? Let's read this article to the end.

READ ALSO: The Miracle of the Koran Answers the Challenges of the Times

The Difference Between Tilawah and Qiraah: Reading the Qur'an with Appreciation

Linguistically, the word "tilawah" comes from the word "tala" (تلا), which means "to follow." Tilawah of the Quran means reading with understanding and following the meaning of the verses being read. This is different from "qiraah," which comes from the word "qara'a" (قرأ), which means to collect or read in general, including any reading.

So, recitation is a more specific activity, which requires understanding and appreciation of the meaning of reading the Al-Qur'an, not just reading word for word.

In the context of interacting with the Quran, tilawah holds a higher position than qiraah. For example, we know the term Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) instead of Musabaqah Qiraah Al-Qur'an, because tilawah is more associated with reading the Quran specifically and devoutly, often with beautiful tones and full of feeling. Qiraah, on the other hand, has a more general meaning.

young man who likes reciting the Koran

The Beauty of Al-Quran Recitations : Examples of Three Verses That Strengthen Their Meaning

Tilawah as a specific term is found in several verses of the Qur'an. For example, in QS. Al-Baqarah [2]: 121, Allah SWT says:

God bless you God bless you

Meaning: "Those to whom We have given the Book, they recite it as it should be recited, they are the ones who believe in it."

This verse emphasizes that recitation is reading in the correct way, namely understanding and appreciating the verses, not just reading the pronunciation outwardly. Likewise, in QS. An-Naml [27]: 92 and QS. Al-Ankabut [29]: 45, 

وَاَنْ اَتْلُوَا الْقُرْاٰنَ ۚفَمَنِ اهْتَدٰى فَاِنَّمَا يَهْتَدِيْ لِنَفْسِهٖۚ 

Meaning: "and that I may recite the Qur'an (to people). So whoever receives guidance, indeed he will receive guidance for (the good of) himself," (QS. An-Naml, 27: 92)

may Allah bless him and give him peace and blessings الصَّلٰوةَۗ 

Meaning: "Read the Book (Al-Qur'an) which has been revealed to you (Muhammad) and perform prayers." (QS. Al-Ankabut, 29: 45)

Allah SWT. mentioned the importance of recitations as a reading process that involves conveying the message of the Qur'an with deep meaning to humanity.

The Prophet Muhammad SAW was ordered to read the Koran to humans, to reveal the meaning and secrets contained in it, and to absorb the beauty of the postulates of God's power that can be seen in the universe. 

Thus, Rasulullah Saw. can understand the true nature of life and receive the abundance of God's grace to him. The Prophet repeated the verse several dozen times until dawn. When he read it, he saw several secrets contained in it, so he felt the benefits of reading verses of the Koran and understanding its contents.

READ ALSO: The Glory of Islam is Inseparable from the Qur'an as a Source of Inspiration and Guidance

Haqqo Tilawah : Reading with Practice, According to Correct Rules

Ibn Mas'ud and Ibnu Abbas in their interpretation of Surah Al-Baqarah verse 121 explain that "reading with true reading" means following the instructions of the Qur'an, making lawful what is lawful, and making forbidden what is forbidden, without changing or distorting the meaning of the verse. This is what is called "Haqqo Tilawah," recitations that truly bring deep practice and understanding.

That is the correct recitation. Seeking guidance and inspiration to always live by the Quran, that you follow its instructions with their true meaning. Then Ibn Abbas recited His words (as proof that the meaning of yatlunahu "to read" is to follow it). 

وَالْقَمَرِ اِذَا تَلٰىهَاۖ

Meaning: "by the moon if it accompanies it" (QS. Asy-Syam, 91: 2)

Recitations are not just about pursuing reading targets, such as reciting the Koran or completing one juz every day. Correct recitation involves understanding and practicing Allah's verses in everyday life. Only those who understand and follow the instructions of the Qur'an can achieve the true nature of faith.

READ ALSO: Divine Light Is Living Together with the Koran

Conclusion on the Meaning of Al-Quran Recitations

Quranic recitation is more than just reading. It requires a deep understanding and appreciation of the meaning of Allah's verses. Unlike conventional recitation, Quranic recitation is a special way of interacting with the Quran that involves a sincere effort to understand and practice its teachings.

God knows best

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