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"Do they not then reflect on the Quran? Or are there locks upon their hearts?"
(Surah Muhammad 47:24)

How to Quran Journal

 

Many of us want to connect with the Quran on a deeper level but often feel overwhelmed or unsure about where to start. This guide is designed to provide a simple and structured foundation for Quran journaling that’s easy to follow and allows you to build a personal connection with the Quran, insha’Allah.

If you’re a beginner, around 2 to 3 verses is more than enough to start off with. If you feel like a daily habit isn't possible, make this a bi-weekly habit or even a weekly habit to begin with.

The most important bit is to simply start and maintain a manageable and consistent habit. This is so much more powerful then opening up the Quran and reading a few pages every other month!

Also keep in mind what the Prophet (pbuh) has told us —

“Take up good deeds only as much as you are able, for the best deeds are those done regularly even if they are few.”

What You'll Need

Here’s a quick checklist of materials to make your Quran journaling more effective:

  • Pen and Journal: Taking notes helps organize your thoughts and gives you something to refer back to later.

  • Quran (Physical or Digital): You can use a physical Quran or a digital one, such as Quran.com.

  • Tafsir Resources:

    • Physical Books: Consider having a copy of Tafsir Ibn Kathir (detailed and comprehensive) and Tafsir As-Sa’di (simplified).

    • Online Resources: Use tools like the tafsir section on Quran.com.

  • Open Heart: Approach your journaling with sincerity and readiness to receive Allah’s guidance.

The QRAN Method

We’ll use the letters of "Quran" in English (Q-R-A-N) as a step-by-step guide to journaling:

  1. Q – Quote the Verse
    Start by selecting a verse you want to study. Write it down in Arabic and, if you can, include its translation in your language.

  2. R – Read and Understand the Context
    Dive into the background of the verse. Look into its tafsir (exegesis) to understand its meaning and the circumstances of its revelation.

  3. A – Apply to Your Daily Life
    Reflect on how the verse relates to your life. What lessons can you take from it? How can you implement it in your daily actions and mindset?

  4. N – Next Step
    Decide which verse or surah you’ll study next to keep the momentum going.

Step-by-Step Example

Let’s walk through an example using Surah Al-Shams, verse 12:

Q: Quote the Verse

Write the verse in Arabic and its translation.
"When the most wicked of them went forth." (Surah Al-Shams 91:12)

R: Understand the Context

Research the background of the verse by looking at the tafsir as it not only gives you an explanation of the verse but usually gives the context of the verse as well as the context it was revealed as they play a big role in understanding the verse properly. For example, this verse refers to the tribe of Thamud and their leader, who stood up to kill the miraculous she-camel sent as a sign from Allah. Despite their blessings, they rejected Allah’s commands and focused on what they didn’t have.

A: Apply to Your Life

Reflect on the lessons from this verse:

  • Gratitude for Blessings: Just like the tribe of Thamud failed to appreciate their blessings, we should avoid focusing on what we lack and instead thank Allah for His countless favors.

  • Respecting Boundaries: Allah’s commands come with boundaries, and staying within them is a sign of faith and obedience.

N: Plan Your Next Step

Write down what you’ll study next. For instance, "Next, I’ll explore the rest of Surah Al-Shams" or "I’ll look into Surah Al-Kahf."

Additional Tips

  • Use Quran Reflect: Tools like Quran Reflect offer insights and reflections from others to help you think more deeply about a verse.

  • Get Creative: Add color, drawings, or designs to your journal to make it uniquely yours.

  • Be Consistent: Even if you only do a small section at a time, consistency is key to building a lasting habit.

Download Our Free Quran Journal Below To Get Started:

Free Quran Journal.png

Or if you prefer using Notion use the one below:

Screenshot 2025-01-22 at 7.30.53 AM.png

To get some inspiration for other ideas for your journal visit here.

How to read the Quran

 

Quran Tafsir Series

 
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