Tilawah (Quran Recitation)

Tilawah (Arabic: تلاوة) means "recitation" and refers specifically to the recitation of the Quran. Tilawah is a central part of the Islamic prayer (where Al-Fatiha and additional surahs are recited) and an independent act of worship in itself. Recitation of the Quran is one of the most meritorious acts in Islam.

The Quran encourages its own recitation: "Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book" (Surah Al-Ankabut 29:45). And: "Those who recite the Book of Allah, establish prayer, and spend of what We have provided them, secretly and openly — they can hope for a transaction that will never fail" (Surah Fatir 35:29).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said: "The best of you is the one who learns the Quran and teaches it" (narrated in Al-Kafi and Sahih al-Bukhari). Imam al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) said: "The Quran is Allah's covenant with His creation — it is therefore fitting for every Muslim to look into his covenant and recite at least 50 verses daily" (Al-Kafi, vol. 2, Kitab Fadl al-Quran).

In Shia tradition, there are specific rules for tilawah in prayer: Surah Al-Fatiha is obligatory in every rak'ah, a complete surah is obligatory after Al-Fatiha in the first two rak'ah, and the recitation must be correct with tajwid (proper pronunciation). Outside of prayer, it is recommended to recite the Quran daily, especially after the Fajr prayer, and to complete the entire Quran (khatm al-Quran) at least once a month — and during Ramadan, many try to complete it multiple times.