Struggling to Read the Quran? Here’s the Hadith That Encourages You

If you’re struggling to read the Quran, especially if you’re not a native Arabic speaker, you’re not alone. Many Muslims around the world face challenges when learning to recite the Quran, mispronouncing words, reading slowly, or feeling discouraged. 

But here’s the uplifting truth: struggling to read the Quran brings you great reward, as promised by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

What Does Islam Say About Struggling to Read the Quran?

One of the most comforting and motivating teachings in Islam comes from this well-known hadith:

Arabic:

“الماهرُ بالقرآنِ مع السَّفَرةِ الكِرامِ البررةِ، والذي يقرَأُ القرآنَ ويتَتَعْتَعُ فيه، وهو عليه شاقٌّ، له أجرانِ.”

Transliteration:

“Al-māhiru bil-Qur’āni ma‘a as-safarati al-kirāmi al-bararah.Wa alladhī yaqra’u al-Qur’āna wa yata‘ata‘u fīhi wa huwa ‘alayhi shāqqun lahu ajrān.”

English Translation:

“The one who recites the Quran and is proficient in it will be with the noble and righteous scribes (angels); and the one who recites the Quran and struggles while reading it, stammering or stumbling, will have a double reward.”, Sahih Muslim 

This hadith about struggling to read the Quran reminds us that Allah rewards not only perfect recitation but also the effort, the patience, and the perseverance of those who try their best despite difficulties.

“And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.” Surah Al-‘Ankabut (69)

Struggling to read the Quran, yet persisting, is a powerful form of striving for Allah’s sake. The act is honored, not just the result.

One primary reason for struggling to read Quran is the changing form of Arabic letters based on their position. A letter looks different at the beginning, middle, or end of a written word.

Our certified instructors emphasize that you must recognize these transitions instantly to maintain reading flow. If you cannot identify the letter ‘Ba’ in a connected string, your recitation speed will naturally suffer significantly.

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What Does Double Reward for Struggling Mean?

This hadith is clear: you will receive a double reward if you struggle while reading the Quran. Scholars like Imam Nawawi explain this hadith to mean:

1. You earn the reward for reading the Quran itself.
2. And an additional reward for enduring hardship and difficulty.

So, if you’re feeling frustrated, slow, or unsure while reading, remember: your struggle is worship. Every time you pause to correct a word, every attempt to pronounce a letter right, is counted and rewarded by Allah.

“Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one good deed as ten hasanah (rewards). I do not say that Alif-Lam-Meem is one letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.”Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi

Even if your recitation is broken or slow, each letter still counts and brings multiplied reward.

Why Is There a Double Reward?

Islam honors sincere effort. When you’re struggling to read the Quran:

• You are worshiping with your tongue, even if it’s slow.
• You are striving with your heart, showing patience and love for Allah’s words.
• You are using your time and energy for something noble and pure.

Why You Shouldn’t Feel Embarrassed or Defeated?

It’s easy to compare yourself with fluent readers and feel that your efforts are not enough. But Allah sees your sincerity and values it more than fluency. Here are some points to keep in mind:

• The Quran was revealed to guide, not to stress.
• Everyone starts somewhere, even the best reciters were once beginners.
• Your effort itself is ibadah (worship).

As Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small.”, Sahih Bukhari

Start the Noorani Qaida Course when struggling to read Quran

The most effective way to stop struggling to read the Quran is to enroll in a structured Noorani Qaida Course. This foundational program teaches the building blocks of the Arabic language through a logical, step-by-step progression.

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At The Quran Reading Academy, we use this method to help students decode the script before they attempt full verses. This prevents the habit of guessing words, which is a common mistake for beginners.

For those who prefer a visual and modern approach, the Al-Menhaj Book provides clear illustrations of letter connections. It is an excellent resource for anyone struggling to read Quran due to visual complexity.

Our Quran Reading Classes integrate these resources to ensure you receive a comprehensive education. 

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Examples from the Companions Struggled Too

The companions of the Prophet ﷺ, many of whom were not originally fluent in Arabic or had to memorize the Quran gradually, serve as an example. Abdullah ibn Mas’ud رضي الله عنه said:

“We used to learn ten verses at a time, and we would not move forward until we had understood and practiced them”,  reported by Al-Tabari

Their approach was slow and steady, focused on understanding, not rushing.

And just like the companions, many people today begin their Quran journey with limited Arabic and struggle at first, but with patience and proper support, they grow.

Struggling to Read the Quran Is a Sign of Sincerity

If you are searching for hadith about struggling to read the Quran, it likely means that you’re trying, perhaps even frustrated, but you still care. That alone is valuable in Islam. Here’s what your struggle shows:

• A pure intention to connect with the words of Allah.
• A desire to grow spiritually.
• A willingness to put in effort for the sake of Allah.

These are powerful traits in the sight of Allah.

How to Stay Motivated While Learning Quran?

Even though you’re being rewarded for the struggle, it’s still important to stay on track and keep learning. Here are some tips:

1. Set a small, consistent schedule, even 5 minutes a day.
2. Celebrate small wins, like reading one verse correctly.
3. Learn with a qualified teacher who understands your challenges.
4. Use transliteration and audio aids to improve pronunciation.
5. Make duaa regularly, ask Allah to make it easy for you.
6. Apps like Quran Companion can help reinforce what you learn during lessons.

End the cycle of struggling to read Quran today with The Quran Reading Academy

If you are struggling to read Quran, the best solution is professional guidance. The Quran Reading Academy offers personalized support to help you master the script, improve your pronunciation, and gain full recitation confidence.

Our Online Quran Reading Course with Tajweed features certified instructors who specialize in helping non-Arabic speakers. We provide a supportive environment where you can learn at your own pace using the Al-Menhaj Book.

• Expert certified tutors available for all levels.
• Structured methodology using the Noorani Qaida Course.
• Flexible scheduling for busy students in Western contexts.
• Proven results in overcoming the difficulty of struggling to read quran.

Stop struggling to read Quran alone and start your path toward beautiful recitation. 

Check out our top courses to help you read the Quran with confidence:

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Conclusion

Struggling to read the Quran reflects sincerity and devotion, not weakness. Islam honors consistent effort, teaching that perseverance, patience, and intention are just as important as flawless recitation. Every attempt is recognized and multiplied in reward.

Structured learning, such as the Noorani Qaida Course, provides a clear path for beginners. Step-by-step guidance, visual aids, and support from qualified instructors transform frustration into confidence and mastery over Arabic script and pronunciation.

Even the companions faced similar challenges, progressing slowly but steadily. With proper tools, dedicated practice, and heartfelt intention, struggling becomes a spiritual journey, turning challenges into acts of worship and deepening connection with Allah’s words.