Recite with measured care

Tartil is clear, measured recitation: distinguish the words, observe their pronunciation and give the verses appropriate pauses. A beautiful voice should serve understanding and reverence, rather than performance or haste.

Listen to dependable recitation and learn with a competent teacher. Improve progressively without allowing fear of mistakes to stop you praying. In al-Fatihah, an unhurried pace helps you attend to praise, mercy, accountability, worship and guidance.

Bring tongue, hearing and heart together. Longer recitation is beneficial when it preserves attention; it should not be pursued at the expense of pronunciation, stillness or the capacity of those praying with you.