When Are You too Old to Start Memorizing Quran? | re:Verses Episode 1
In the first episode of the Tarteel podcast, Sh. Musa Abuzaghleh welcomes Brother Yahya, who shares his inspiring journey of memorizing the Quran, starting at the age of 25. They discuss the challenges and rewards of memorization, emphasizing that age is not a barrier to embarking on this sacred journey.
Starting Late in Life: A Common Concern
Brother Yahya, now 27, began his Hifz journey two and a half years ago. Despite his initial apprehensions about starting later in life, he is now nearing the completion of his Quran memorization. His story resonates with many who might feel they are too old to start this spiritual endeavor. Sh. Musa and Brother Yahya stress that the Quran is for everyone, regardless of age, and beginning at any stage can be deeply rewarding.
Benefits of Starting with Juz Amma
One of the practical tips discussed is starting with Juz Amma, the 30th Juz, which contains shorter surahs frequently recited in daily prayers. This approach not only makes the memorization process more manageable but also reinforces the verses through regular use in worship. Brother Yahya found that starting with these shorter chapters helped him gain confidence and momentum in his memorization journey.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Community
Moving from the UK to Abu Dhabi, Brother Yahya faced the challenge of finding a supportive community for his Quran studies. He noted that while Islamic environments can be more prevalent in Muslim-majority countries, the close-knit community he experienced in the UK was harder to find. This shift required him to adapt and seek out new learning opportunities, such as studying with a sheikh in Medina via Zoom.
Practical Tips for Quran Memorization
Sh. Musa and Brother Yahya shared several practical tips for those embarking on their Hifz journey:
- Consistency and Routine: Establish a regular time for memorization each day. This consistency helps in forming a habit and making steady progress.
- Small, Manageable Goals: Setting achievable goals, such as memorizing a few lines or a page a day, can prevent overwhelm and maintain motivation.
- Understanding and Reflecting: Engaging with the meanings of the verses can deepen your connection to the Quran and make memorization more meaningful.
- Utilizing Technology: Tools like Tarteel can provide real-time feedback and support for memorization, helping you correct mistakes and track progress.
- Community and Support: Joining a Hifz group or finding a study partner can provide motivation and accountability. Even if you start alone, seeking out community resources can enhance your journey.
- Patience and Perseverance: Recognizing that memorization is a long-term commitment and being patient with yourself as you progress is crucial. Setbacks are natural, but persistence pays off.
Spiritual and Emotional Growth
Memorizing the Quran is not just an intellectual endeavor but also a spiritual and emotional one. Brother Yahya emphasized the transformative impact of this journey on his personal faith and connection to Allah. He shared how his daily interaction with the Quran brought tranquility and purpose to his life, reinforcing the idea that memorization is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.