Memorization plan for the Holy Quran

By Luqman Mustapha Abu-Rifqoh

Preparation:

1. Set Realistic Goals:
   • Begin with a manageable amount (e.g., a short Surah or a few Ayat at first). Gradually increase as you progress. Do not for any reason start with larger portions, remember Allah started the revelation of the Quran to the prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) with five short verses. Also, the overall chapters and verses revealed at the onset of Islam were all short.
2. Find a Qualified Teacher (Qari):
   • A qualified and conscious Qari should be in place to assess your recitation (Tajweed) and guide you on proper pronunciation. This is crucial for accurate memorization. Many a time a student memorises wrongly and won’t notice the error on his own until after reciting it to someone superior. Remember Allah gave the prophet the perfect teacher who listens to the recitation of the best of mankind (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him).
3. Choose an Appropriate Quran:
   • Select a Quran with a clear script preferably with Tajweed markings to aid pronunciation. Kindly choose the Madina Mushaf (Mushaf al-Madinah an-Nabawiyyah, Arabic: مصحف المدينة النبوية).
     

Memorization Techniques:

1. Focus on Tajweed:
   • Master the rules of recitation before memorizing, at least what you wanted to memorise. This ensures accurate pronunciation from the beginning. You won’t want to go back to perfect the recitation of what you have already memorised.
2. Active Listening:
   • Listen attentively to your Qari or a recording of a qualified reciter. Pay close attention to pronunciation, rhythm, and pauses. Listen to the likes of Qari Siddeeq Al-Minshawy, Al-Husary, and Muhammad Ayyoub among others.
3. Repetition with Understanding:
   • Repeat the verses after the Qari, focusing on meaning and context. Consider the Tafseer (interpretation) to deepen understanding.
4. Long-time Memory Repetition:
   • After being able to recite verses or surah intended to be memorised perfectly with tajweed offhand (this stays in the short-term memory), you start the repetition of the verse(s) to commit it to the long-term memory about 70 times or at least 50 times. That may seem much to amateurs in the field of memorisation but it’s in fact small to the standard repetition time of 100, 200 or 300 times. And be informed that there is no shortcut to perfect memorisation like adequate repetition of what you intend to memorise.
5. Breaking Down Surahs:
   • Divide longer verses into smaller sections for easier memorization. Master each section before moving on to the next. Do the same to long Surahs too.

Maintaining Memorization:

1. Recitation with Others:
   • Regularly recite what you have memorized to others, such as your Qari, family, or fellow students. This reinforces memorization and receives corrections if needed.
2. Daily Review:
   • Dedicate time each day to revise memorized portions. Consistency is key to retaining what you have learned. Failure to revise what has been memorised adequately will lead to forgetting.
3. Listening to Recordings:
   • Regularly listen to recordings of your memorized portions to maintain proper pronunciation and flow.
4. Connecting with the Quran:
   • Read the meaning and contemplate the message of the memorized verses. This fosters a deeper connection with the Quran and enhances memorization.

Additional Tips:

• • Find a Study Partner:
    • Studying with a friend or fellow student can provide motivation, accountability, and support.
  • Record Yourself:
    • Record your recitations and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
  • Utilize Technology:
    • Explore Quran memorization apps or online resources to supplement your learning.
  • Maintain Consistency:

• Dedicate a specific time each day for memorization and revision. Consistency is crucial for long-term success.

• Seek Reward in Allah:
  • Remember, memorizing the Quran is an act of worship. Focus on the spiritual reward and the pleasure of Allah.

Remember: Patience, dedication, and consistent effort are key to successful Quran memorization. May Allah guide you on this blessed journey.