Season 2 of re:Verses Has Landed: Here's How to START Memorizing the Quran
BIG NEWS! Season 2 of re:Verses is HERE! In this episode, our new host Dawoud Yahya is joined by Shaykh Ashiqur Rahman to share invaluable insights on how to begin memorizing the Quran and it's a conversation packed with wisdom, actionable tips, and motivational advice for anyone on their Quran memorization journey.
The episode opens with the announcement of a new season and the introduction of Shaykh Ashiqur Rahman, a Hafiz and Qari of the Quran, who holds multiple ijazahs and has taught students worldwide. Shaykh Ashiq speaks about the essential role of a teacher in the process of memorizing the Quran, noting that the Quran was revealed with a teacher to guide its proper understanding and application. He emphasizes the importance of having a teacher to learn tajweed, correct recitation, and the appropriate method to transmit the sacred text.
Connecting with the Quran: Find Your Favorite Qari
Shaykh Ashiq encourages students to first develop a strong relationship with a reciter they admire, whether it be famous Egyptian qurra like Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Husary or more modern imams. By listening to these respected reciters, students can absorb the correct pronunciation, style, and rhythm of Quranic recitation.
The Bridging Method for Memorization
One of the key takeaways from the episode is the bridging method of Quranic memorization, where students are encouraged to memorize a few ayahs at a time, connect them, and continuously revise them. Shaykh Ashiq beautifully illustrates this concept using the analogy of building a bridge with Legos—the stronger the foundation (through repetition), the more solid the memorization will be.
Balancing Ease and Struggle
Throughout the episode, Shaykh Ashiq stresses that learning the Quran is a spiritual and mental struggle, but one that comes with immense reward. He highlights the importance of sincerity and dedication in Quranic memorization, noting that Allah guides those who put in the effort.
Challenges and Practical Tips
The podcast addresses some of the common challenges students face, especially in Western societies where distractions abound. Shaykh Ashiq advises students to immerse themselves in environments where the Quran is central—whether through regular classes, joining local halaqas, or engaging with other students of the Quran.
Beautifying Your Recitation
Lastly, the Shaykh touches on the significance of reciting the Quran with tajweed and how the process of memorization shouldn’t come at the cost of correct recitation. He advises students to focus on accuracy first, while gradually learning to beautify their recitation as they grow more proficient.
Key Lessons:
- Find a Teacher: A teacher is crucial for learning tajweed, proper recitation, and for the Quran to be passed on correctly.
- Select a Reciter to Emulate: Start by listening to a respected qari to inspire and guide your recitation style.
- Use the Bridging Method: Connect small portions of the Quran and build a strong memorization foundation through repetition.
- Prioritize Sincerity: The effort you put into memorizing the Quran should come from a place of sincere devotion to Allah.
- Overcome Distractions: Surround yourself with people dedicated to the Quran, attend classes, and join Quranic communities.
- Experiment with Memorization Techniques: Try new things until you figure out exactly with memorization method/routine works best for you!