Introduction
Knowing what to recite before reading the Quran is one of the first things every new learner should understand. Before opening the Quran, Islamic tradition teaches a simple but meaningful practice: seeking Allah’s protection and beginning in His name. This complete guide explains exactly what to recite before reading the Quran, what each phrase means, and why this small step carries so much importance.
Quick Answer: What to Recite Before Reading the Quran
Before reciting the Quran, say two things in this order:
- Ta’awwuz – “I seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan, the accursed.”
- Tasmiyah (Bismillah) – “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”
Below, we explain both in detail, including when and how often to recite each one.
What Is Ta’awwuz and When Should You Recite It?
Ta’awwuz is the phrase Muslims recite to seek Allah’s protection from Shaytan before starting Quran recitation. This practice comes directly from a Quranic instruction in Surah An-Nahl, where believers are told to seek refuge in Allah before reading.
When to recite it: At the start of every Quran recitation session, even if you’re continuing from where you left off in the same surah.
Why it matters: Reciting Ta’awwuz reflects awareness that reading the Quran is a spiritually significant act, one that deserves a focused mind, free from distraction.
What Is Tasmiyah (Bismillah) and When Should You Recite It?
Tasmiyah, widely known as Bismillah, is recited at the beginning of each surah, right after Ta’awwuz.
When to recite it: Before every surah, with one key exception: Surah At-Tawbah, the only surah in the Quran that does not begin with Bismillah.
Why it matters: Beginning in the name of Allah reflects sincerity and humility, acknowledging that the ability to read and understand the Quran comes from Him alone.
Step-by-Step: How to Begin Reciting the Quran Correctly
- Recite Ta’awwuz (seeking refuge from Shaytan).
- Recite Tasmiyah/Bismillah (in the name of Allah).
- Begin reciting your chosen surah or verses.
- If continuing later in the same surah, repeat only Ta’awwuz, not Bismillah.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you recite before reading the Quran? You recite Ta’awwuz first, followed by Tasmiyah (Bismillah), before beginning your recitation.
Do you say Ta’awwuz every time you open the Quran? Yes. Ta’awwuz should be recited at the start of every recitation session, even when continuing the same surah from before.
Is Bismillah recited before every surah? Yes, except before Surah At-Tawbah, which is the only surah that doesn’t begin with Bismillah.
What happens if I forget to recite Ta’awwuz or Bismillah? There’s no cause for concern. Simply recite them as soon as you remember and continue reciting with a focused heart.
Why is it important to recite these before the Quran? They help the reciter start with the right intention, seeking protection from distraction and beginning in humility, before engaging with the words of Allah.
Why This Small Practice Makes a Big Difference
Reciting Ta’awwuz and Bismillah takes only a few seconds, yet it transforms Quran reading from a routine task into a mindful, spiritually grounded moment. Making this a consistent habit helps build focus and sincerity into every recitation session, not just occasionally.
Learn the Correct Way to Recite the Quran
Understanding small but essential details, like what to recite before reading the Quran, is just the beginning of building strong Quran reading habits. Our online Quran classes offer certified male and female teachers who guide you through proper recitation, Tajweed, and understanding, step by step, with flexible timing and a free trial class.
Book your free trial class today and learn to recite the Quran the right way, from the very first step.
