Ruling on Reading Quran in English – Is It Allowed in Islam?

Can I read the Quran in English if I don’t speak Arabic?
This is one of the most common questions among new Muslims and non-Arabic speakers who want to connect with the Book of Allah.

✅ Short Answer:

Reading the translation of the Quran in English is permissible for understanding its meanings, but it is not a substitute for the Arabic text in acts of worship like prayer (salah).

The Arabic Quran is the literal word of Allah, while translations are human efforts to explain the meaning.

Yes, you can read the Quran in English to understand the guidance, values, and wisdom of Islam. Scholars agree that non-Arabic speakers are encouraged to read translations until they are able to learn Arabic.

However, there are two key distinctions to understand:

The Quran was revealed in Arabic, and its recitation (tilawah) is an act of worship tied to the specific words of Allah. This is why Arabic remains essential in prayer. But for daily reflection and learning, English translations are incredibly helpful.

A common concern is: Do I get rewarded if I read the Quran in English?

Here’s what scholars say:

• You get rewarded for the intention and the effort to understand the message.

• However, the reward for reciting the Quran in Arabic (even if you struggle) is greater. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

  “The one who is proficient in the recitation of the Qur'an will be with the honorable and obedient scribes (angels), and he who recites the Qur'an and finds it difficult to recite, doing his best, will have a double reward.” (Sahih Muslim)

Tip: Many Muslims start with translation side-by-side with the Arabic text. Apps and printed Qurans make this easy and effective.

According to IslamQA, a well-respected Islamic fatwa website supervised by Shaykh Muhammad Saalih al-Munajjid:

“It is permissible to read the meaning of the Qur’an in another language such as English in order to understand it. But it is not called Qur’an; it is a translation of the meanings.”
— IslamQA Fatwa No. 3471

This reinforces the understanding that translations are for learning, not worship. The original Arabic words are essential for acts of devotion like salah.

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