[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Our previous blog posts highlighted the importance of rectifying one’s intention when it comes to memorising the Quran and how this noble pursuit of Hifz should be done for the sake of Allah SWT alone. We also explored practical steps to staying grounded and how acquiring knowledge does not automatically qualify one to pass judgements, thus the need to guard the tongue.
Like any other form of achievement, there is no success without sacrifice and memorising the Quran is no different. In order to discipline the mind, one has to discipline the body and build a routine to maximise productivity. This includes changing lifestyle habits and doing everything in our power to minimise bad habits to ensure the Quran is entering our hearts.
Building a Routine
There is a certain type of tranquillity that follows the morning, especially after praying Fajr so instead of falling back into bed, irrespective of whether we are a barn owl or an early riser, make the most of the morning as this is the golden hour of the day and crucial for memorisation.
“Whoever prays the morning prayer in congregation, then he sits remembering Allah until the sun rises and prays two Rakahs (Duha) will have a reward similar to the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage.”[ Tirmidhi]
In this digital age, we are never far away from mobiles and other electronic devices, so in order to minimise distractions, it’s worth switching off phones and distancing oneself from company during this time in order to dedicate oneself fully and entirely to the words of Allah SWT. This way, the temptation to ‘quickly’ check WhatsApp messages or join in on a conversation will be mitigated – keeping one focused and leaving the mind clear from matters of the Dunya.
Goal Planning
Be sure to set realistic expectations. It can be so easy to get swayed with memorising large chunks of the Quran at a time, especially if one finds it relatively easy; however, with a busy routine and day-to-day life this is not always sustainable. This may result in giving up on a routine altogether or struggling to recall the ayats memorised in a short space of time. Rather, invest time in memorising three to five lines daily while reading the translation in order to comprehend the meaning and internalise it.
“I strongly believe that anything is possible to achieve in this world; however, you are required to be focused and have clear objectives.” Mohammad Owais Rahmat, a recent Hifz graduate who is currently studying for an MA in Islamic Studies as part of the Zia Ul Ummah Foundation Scholar sponsorship programme with the support of generous donors like yourselves.
Put it into Practice
Practice makes perfect, and there is no better way to revise memorised portions of the Quran than by reciting them within the Salahs. This way, one can establish which Ayats and Surahs require more work and action time to actually rectify these mistakes after prayer time.
Determination, practice and hard work are all essential ingredients when it comes to memorising the words of our Almighty Creator, and something Hafiz Mohammad Owais Rahmat knows all too well from his own experience of memorising. However, he also acknowledges the importance of having a goal in mind and adhering to the Quran and Sunnah: “To achieve your dream, I believe you need to have a clear vision and hold on to the teaching of Islam, Qur’an and Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.”
In the next blog post, we will focus on other practical measures to keep in mind and bad habits to avoid in order to increase productivity and ensure the Quran is entering our hearts.
It couldn’t be easier to provide more inspirational individuals, like Mohammad Owais, the opportunity to become a true representative of Islam and a beacon of light within the community by sponsoring our Hifz and Alim programmes. Please click here to find out more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]