How to read the Qur’an for the first time as a non-Muslim
Short answer: You can begin by reading an accessible translation, learning a few basic terms, and taking one short passage at a time. Read verses in context, consult commentary for unfamiliar ideas, and keep a list of questions. You do not need to know Arabic to start exploring the text.
What the Qur’an is
Muslims understand the Qur’an as revelation from God to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The original is in Arabic, and translations convey its meaning in other languages. You are welcome to read it whatever your background or beliefs; reading it does not assume anything about your faith.
A few basic terms
These words appear often:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Surah | A chapter of the Qur’an |
| Ayah | A verse within a surah |
| Tafsir | Scholarly commentary explaining the meaning |
| Allah | The Arabic word for God |
How the book is arranged
The Qur’an has 114 surahs. It is not arranged as a single chronological story, so it reads differently from a novel or a history book. Passages often move between themes, address the reader directly, and refer to events or people that a commentary can explain.
Where to start
There is no single correct order for a first reading. Al-Fātiḥah, the short opening surah, is a manageable place to begin. If you would like to explore how the Qur’an speaks about God, Al-Ikhlāṣ (surah 112) is also short; read the surahs around it and a commentary for context.
Translations and unfamiliar references
You do not need prior knowledge of the Bible or other scriptures. When a passage mentions a person or event you do not recognise, note it. In Tibyaan, the Period of Revelation and Themes section at the top of a surah gives background, and once signed in you can ask Research about the specific ayah and read the commentary it cites.
A first session
For a different first session, open Al-Ḥujurāt 49:13 in Tibyaan. Read the surrounding verses as well. You can approach the passage with an observational question, without assuming a particular personal belief.
- Read 49:11–13 in translation, then return to 49:13.
- Notice who is being addressed and which words you would like explained.
- Write a question such as: “What does 49:13 say about peoples and tribes, and what context does the commentary give?”
- If you choose to use Research, check the cited source passages; it needs sign-in.
- Record what the passage says, what the commentary explains and one question you still have, keeping them distinct.
This is an invitation to read and ask questions, not a test of belief. You can read without an account.
Reading respectfully
Many Muslims hold the Qur’an in deep reverence, and approaching it with care and curiosity is a good starting point. If you want to know about specific practices around handling or reciting the Qur’an, ask a knowledgeable person directly.
Common questions
Can I read the Qur’an just out of curiosity?
Yes. Many people read it to learn what it says. Take it a passage at a time and note your questions.
Where should I start?
Al-Fātiḥah is a short, manageable start, but you can choose another passage. Our guide to understanding the Qur’an without Arabic may also help.
Do I need an account to use Tibyaan?
No. Reading the Qur’an in Tibyaan is free without signing in. Saving notes and Research need a free sign-in.