Health Benefits of Reciting the Holy Quran

The Holy Quran holds a significant place in the lives of Muslims, serving as a spiritual guide and a source of divine wisdom. Quran Recitation holds numerous benefits for individuals, both spiritually and emotionally.

Quran Recitation and its Impact

Beyond its religious significance, various scientific studies have shed light on the potential health benefits associated with the Quran recitation. The impact of the Quran on an individual is never-ending.

Allah mentions in the Quran ‘’ And declare (O Muhammad) that [the Quran] is a guidance and healing for the believers.’’

[41:44]

1. Mental Health

The Quran has a profound impact on mental health, offering solace, guidance, and comfort to individuals facing various mental challenges. It induces stress reduction and brings a sense of inner peace, tranquillity, and emotional well-being. The Quran offers spiritual remedies for stress, anxiety, depression and other psychological issues. 

Allah mentions in the Quran ‘’...And We send down of the Qur'an that which is healing and mercy for the believers…} 

[Quran 17:82}

2. Enhancing Cognitive Function

Recitation of this Holy Scripture involves active engagement with the verses, which can have positive effects on cognitive function. The repetitive recitation of Quranic verses acts as a form of meditation, promoting mindfulness and focusing the mind. 

This can lead to improved concentration, emotional balance and cognitive function. The Quranic verses also contain moral and ethical teachings that can guide individuals in making positive life choices and cultivating virtuous behaviours. 

Qurah says ‘’ And We sent down in the Quran such things that have healing and mercy for the believers’’

[17:82]

3. Hypertension Diseases

The recitation of our Holy Book is part of a holistic approach to managing stress and promoting overall well-being. Islam has emphasized taking care of your health and diet. 

Our beloved prophet (PBUH) once said  "There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He also has created its treatment."

 [Sunan Abi Dawud 3874]

For every disease, Allah has sent the cure. Our messenger (PBUH) also narrated a hadith

‘’In black seed there is healing for every disease, except death...’’

[Sunan Ibn Majah 3447]

Various studies have been done on black seeds also called Nigella Sativa or Black Cumin. It is the Potential Herb for the Pharmacotherapeutic Management of Anxiety, Hypertension, Cardiovascular and many other diseases.

4. Sound Sleep

The rhythmic and melodic nature of Quranic recitation can induce a sense of calm and relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety. Listening to or reading Quran before sleep creates a soothing and serene environment, which may contribute to a more relaxed state of mind. 

However, it's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and the effect of Quran recitation on sleep may differ from person to person. Factors such as personal belief, emotional state, and overall well-being can influence the impact of sleep quality.

Prophet Muhammad once narrated ‘’ If anyone of you feels drowsy while praying he should go to bed (sleep) till his slumber is over…..’’

[Sahih al-Bukhari 212]

Islam also emphasizes observing sleep timings and sleep hygiene. The Quran and hadith discuss the beneficial effects of sleep and the importance to schedule your sleep depending on light and darkness. 

Hazrat Ayesha (RAW) once said ‘’ I never used to see the Prophet (ﷺ) at the end of the night, except that he was sleeping near me’’

[Sunan Ibn Majah 1197]

Prophet (PBUH) also said ‘’’ Whoever goes to bed intending to wake up and pray during the night, but is overwhelmed by sleep until the morning comes, what he intended will be recorded for him, and his sleep is a charity given to him by his Lord.’’

[Sunan Ibn Majah 1344]

Regarding cleaning the bed, our Beloved Messenger (PBUH) said ‘’When any one of you goes to bed, he should take hold of the hem of his lower garment and then should clean (his bed)....’’

[Sahih Muslim 2714a]

Spiritual Benefits of Reading the Quran

Reading the Quran and comprehending Allah’s message hold numerous spiritual benefits that can have a profound impact on individuals. One can strengthen the connection with Allah by holding the rope of the Quran and the Sunnah of our beloved prophet (PBUH).

1. Reward

The easiest way to get a reward is by reading Allah’s message and then implementing it upon yourself. The act of reciting and reflecting upon the verses of the Quran is highly encouraged and carries numerous blessings.

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "[Whoever recites a letter] from Allah's Book, then he receives the reward from it, and the reward of ten the like of it. I do not say that Alif Lam Mim is a letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter and Mim is a letter."

[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2910]

2. Calmness of Soul

The Quran has a transformative effect on the soul. It nourishes the spiritual well-being of the reader, brings tranquillity to the heart, and increases faith. The rewards extend beyond this worldly life, as the Quran serves as a means of purification and guidance for the hereafter.

‘’....the hearts find peace only in the remembrance of Allah…’’

[13:28]

3. Source of Guidance

The Quran was sent for all mankind and humanity. It is like a manual or a map that should be read and observed. 

Sir William Muir, a renowned Scottish Orientalist and historian expressed his appreciation for the Quran, saying 

"The grandeur of the Quran, its bold yet simple and noble thoughts, its clear and vivid sketches of human life and character, and above all, its earnestness and sincerity, have produced a powerful effect on the hearts and minds of men." 

Our Holy Scripture acts as a source of light as it encompasses all messages and commandments of Allah concerning laws, justice, morals, ethical values, social conduct and much more. Quran gives your life a purpose and urges the human race to seek beneficial knowledge.

Allah states in the Quran  ‘’A Book We have sent down to you so that you may bring forth mankind from the darkness into the light.

[14:1]

4. Intercession on the Day of Judgment:

The intercession of the Quran on the Day of Judgment is a testament to its powerful and transformative nature. A person who fulfils the commandment of Allah through the Quran and Sunnah will never be at a loss on the day of judgment.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Read the Qur'an, for it will come as an intercessor for its reciters on the Day of Resurrection."

 [Riyad as-Salihin 991, Muslim] 

5. Steadfast During the Trials

Quran emphasizes gratitude and patience. This leads to self-discipline and strengthens the emotional state of an individual. It’s essential to rely on Allah and take help from Quran and Hadith when life becomes difficult.

6. Obedience to Allah

A strong believer never questions Allah when he goes through trial and tribulation. A Mo’min neither grieves nor fears and is happy with what Allah says. Seeking Allah’s pleasure will benefit us on an individual and societal level.

Understanding the Quran Recitation

There is no limitation to understanding Quran, however, some people might find it difficult to understand and interpret its message. Quran can’t benefit an individual when it's not understood or followed. 

You can get help from various Quran tutors from any Islamic institute or an authentic online Quran academy like equranekareem. No matter where you are in the world or what experience you have, it’s never too late to learn more about this religion and its Holy Scripture. Visit our website today Online Quran Academy and get access to 3 days of free trial classes.