The Ruling on Recitation Without Contemplation and Action

Question:
May Allah reward you, Honorable Shaykh. Also, do we say that mere recitation without understanding or contemplation is rewarded for its practitioner? Is there a difference in this matter if a person is able to learn and understand the Noble Qur'an or is not able to?

Answer:
Recitation alone is not sufficient without reflection, and recitation and reflection are not sufficient without action. These are matters connected to one another. Recitation is the means to reflection, reflection is the means to action, and action is the ultimate goal. Therefore, recitation without reflection, without being moved, and without humility is not sufficient, because that is recitation on the tongue only. The hypocrites recite the Qur'an, and they are because they do not reflect upon it or act upon it. It was mentioned in the hadith that or their spines. This is a description of their condemnation because they do not act upon it; rather, they focus their attention on recitation and beautifying the voice without reflecting on the meanings of the Qur'an and what the Qur'an indicates. And without acting on what is in the Qur'an. So this recitation, which is without reflection, without understanding, and without action, is only evidence against the son of Adam, as the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Yes.