What is the Quran?

The Quran is the holy book of Islam, and Muslims believe it is the literal speech of God, revealed word for word to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through the angel Gabriel. It was sent down gradually over about twenty-three years, responding to the life of the early Muslim community and guiding them through every joy and hardship.

What makes the Quran remarkable is how carefully it has been preserved. From the very beginning it was memorised by heart and written down, and today millions of people across the world have committed the entire book to memory, letter for letter. The Quran you can open today is the same text Muslims have recited for fourteen centuries.

The Quran is not only a book of law or history. It is a source of comfort, guidance, and beauty. Its verses speak about God, the natural world, the stories of earlier prophets, and how to live with kindness and integrity. Many people find that simply hearing it recited brings a deep sense of calm.

You do not need to read it in order, and you do not need to understand Arabic to begin. A gentle place to start is the very first chapter, Al-Fatiha, the Opening. It is short, central to every prayer, and beloved by Muslims everywhere. Take your time, read slowly, and let the meanings settle in your heart.