بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

Many people curious about Islam often begin their journey with any Qur’an translation they come across — whether it’s the one given to them or simply the first one they see online.

However, those born into Islam have a lot of context and knowledge that newcomers don’t. The problem is that most Quran translations don’t cater to these gaps in understanding.

As a result, reading the Quran can feel daunting and lead to people giving up on it. There’s either too little context, leaving the reader confused, or too much, overwhelming them. Not all translations are designed for converts or those interested in learning about Islam.

The other problem is the sheer variety of translations available!

Imagine, you don’t know anything about the Bible and you’re staring at a bookshelf and there’s like 40 different versions. Which one do you even pick? King James? English Standard? New King James? The only King James I know is LeBron.

Likewise, someone looking to pick up a Qur’an could have a paradox of choice.

This is where MuslimHub.co comes in. Our goal is to be your one-stop shop for everything you need (and want) as a Muslim or someone exploring the faith. We’ve put together recommendations for where to start by carefully reading translations and, more importantly, by asking converts about their experiences.

Here are our top recommendations to help you get started on your journey:

1. The Qur’an: a new translation by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem

The Qur'an: A New Translation by Abdel Haleem (Oxford Classics) is a contemporary translation, renowned for its clarity. Free from the archaisms, incoherence, and rigid structures that often hinder other translations, this version allows readers to engage with the Qur'an without unnecessary barriers.

It’s not just a favorite among converts, it’s also recommended by the foremost translation scholars.

Why It Stands Out:

• Clarity & Readability: The translation maintains the eloquence of the original Arabic, without compromising clarity; it avoids outdated language and phrasing that causes confusion.

  • Paragraphing and punctuation have been thoughtfully added, giving the text a natural flow and aiding comprehension, while the beginning of each verse is subtly marked with superscript type to prevent distractions during reading.

• Clear Dialogue Identification: A question converts often ask is, who is Allah ﷻ addressing here?

  • Direct speech addressed to The Prophet ﷺ is clearly marked in this translation, making it easier for readers to follow and understand the conversation flow within the verses.

• Context: Abdel Haleem provides detailed notes explaining geographical, historical, and personal references throughout the text. Additionally, a concise history of the Qur'an's revelation and compilation, exploring its structure and stylistic features.

  • He also addresses modern issues such as militancy, intolerance, gender relations; offering a balanced perspective on the interpretation of the Qur'an in contemporary times.

  • These topics are also indexed for easy cross-referencing and study.

This translation serves as an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a smooth, coherent, accessible way to understand the Qur'an's timeless message, without sacrificing the integrity of the original text.

2. Al-Quran (Tafsir & by Word App)

The Al-Quran App is by far the most accessible, and customizable way to engage with The Qur’an. The convenience of pulling out your phone and having access to the Speech of God, wherever you are, is a blessing of the time we live in.

Why It Stands Out:

• Customization: choose which translation you want to read, which tafsir (commentary) you want to read, which reciter to hear and even which Arabic font to read the Qur’an in.

• Word-by-Word Translation: : By breaking down each verse word-by-word, users can easily pick up the vocabulary of the Qur’an, making it an invaluable way to understand the Quran in its original Arabic.

  • It also has color-coded tajweed (pronunciation), so you can pronounce the original Arabic correctly, and in a beautified manner.

  • Click on a word to see the root meaning, it’s range of meaning and depth.

• Audio Recitation: Users have the choice of which recitation they want to hear, with the added convenience of listening to it verse-by-verse.

3. The Clear Quran: Audiobook

The Clear Quran is perhaps the most popular translation today. The language used guarantees accuracy, clarity, eloquence, without oversimplifying or distorting the message.

They’ve just launched an audiobook app, making all the more convenient for you to absorb the message of the Qur’an, featuring familiar voices such as Omar Suleiman, Yasir Qadhi, and Yasmin Mogahed.

Why It Stands Out:

• Accessible: The translation uses clear, modern English that resonates with contemporary readers, while remaining true to the original Arabic.

• Informative Footnotes: The footnotes provide essential context, helping readers to grasp the historical background of the verses but also the classical vocabulary used.

  • The footnotes are brief, and provide valuable context without overbearing the reader with other details.

• Audiobook! Listen on the go.

Bonus

4. The Study Quran

The Study Quran is not just a translation but a comprehensive commentary that draws on the rich scholastic tradition of Muslim scholars. It brings together insights from various tafasir (exegeses), offering a deeper and well-rounded understanding of the Qur’an.

Why It Stands Out:

• Rich Commentary: It provides extensive commentary, drawing from classical Islamic scholarship to explain the meanings and implications of the verses.

• Contemporary Essays: The book includes essays from modern Islamic scholars on various themes within the Quran, providing contemporary insights and perspectives.

For new converts eager to delve deeper into the Quran and its interpretations, "The Study Quran" offers a wealth of knowledge and understanding.

5. Saheeh International

Who would’ve thought that the foremost translation of the Qur’an, used around the world is actually written by 3 American women that converted to Islam?

Why It Stands Out:

• Clarity & Simplicity: The translation tries to maintain word-by-word translation wherever it’s grammatically possible, using clear & modern English. uses clear, modern English that makes it accessible to readers who may not be familiar with classical Arabic, offering a smooth reading experience without compromising on the precision of meaning.

• Attention to Detail: Saheeh International has subtle nuances such as using "Allah" instead of "God," as a matter of theology & aqeedah.

• Concise: Most versions of this translation usually have minimal footnotes, and because of this it also comes in the most convenient form factor, and is thus spread across the world as the Qur’an that’s usually handed out.

Conclusion

Beyond just converts, an increasing amount of people are looking to the Qur’an for guidance to eternal questions.

One such example is the atrocities in Gaza, leading many to explore the message of the Quran. The unwavering courage and deep faith displayed by the people of Gaza have left others wondering about the source of their resilience. This curiosity has prompted people worldwide to investigate and study the Quran’s teachings, seeking to understand the spiritual strength that sustains them. However, for those unfamiliar with the Quran, it can be a bit overwhelming: where should one begin?

Each of these translations offers unique strengths that make them ideal for new converts. Whether you are looking for clarity and simplicity, deep scholarly insights, or literary elegance, these translations will help you connect with the Quran and understand its timeless message.

Choosing the right translation of the Qur’an to start with a light decision. The Qur’an is not simply a religious text, it’s our spiritual guide across life. And we’d be wise to be considered in choosing such a close companion.

Duaa before beginning the Qu’ran

اللَّهُمَّ بِالْحَقِّ أَنزَلْتَهُ وَ بِالْحَقِّ نَزَلَ.
اللَّهُمَّ عَظِّمْ رَغْبَتِي فِيهِ وَ اجْعَلْهُ نُورًا لِبَصَرِي وَ شِفَاءًا لِصَدْرِي.
اللَّهُمَّ زَيِّنْ بِهِ لِسَانِي وَ جَمِّلْ بِهِ وَجْهِي وَ حَسِّنْ بِهِ صَوْتِي وَ قَوِّ بِهِ جَسَدِي
وَ ارْزُقْنِي تِلَاوَتَهُ آنَاءَ الْلَيْلِ وَ أَطْرَافَ النَّهَارِ.
وَ احْشُرْنَا مَعَ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَدٍ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلِمْ وَ آلِهِ الْأَخْيَار.

Oh Allah, with Truth You have sent it down (i.e. the Quran), and with Truth it was [indeed] sent down.
Oh Allah, increase my desire for the Quran, and make it a light for my sight and a cure for my chest
Oh Allah beautify with it my tongue, and decorate my face with it, and perfect my voice with it, and increase my body in strength with it.
And give us, as rizq, to recite it with submission to You throughout the night and during parts of the day.
And resurrect us back with Your beloved Prophet Muhammad ‘alaihi salatu wassalaam and salawat on his beloved family.