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Learn How to Pronounce Koran | YouPronounce.it

How to Pronounce Koran

Quick Answer: In Arabic, the word Koran is pronounced [qur.ʔaːn], while in English it is pronounced [kəˈrɑːn] or [kwɔːˈrɑːn].
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)

Meaning and Context

The Koran, the central religious text of Islam, is believed by Muslims to be the verbatim word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over a period of approximately 23 years, beginning in 610 CE. This divine revelation, which Muslims hold to be the final and complete guidance for humanity, serves as the ultimate source of Islamic law (Sharia), theology, worship, and ethics. Composed in classical Arabic, its 114 chapters (Surahs) range in length and cover themes from the oneness of God and the afterlife to social justice, legal principles, and narratives of earlier prophets. The Koran's profound linguistic and literary majesty is considered inimitable (I'jaz), and its recitation is a fundamental act of devotion. For over a billion Muslims worldwide, it is the primary source of spiritual wisdom, daily practice, and community identity, with its study and memorization being highly revered acts of faith. The Quran's teachings continue to shape Islamic civilization, influence Islamic art and calligraphy, and provide a comprehensive framework for life.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The most standardized and academically preferred transliteration from Arabic is "Qur'an," which accurately reflects the Arabic pronunciation with a glottal stop. "Koran" is a common, historically used English spelling derived through European languages, particularly German and French, and remains widely recognized. A frequent error is the omission of the apostrophe or diacritical mark, leading to misspellings like "Quran" (which is increasingly accepted in modern usage) or "Kuran." Other common typos include "Qu'ran" (misplaced apostrophe), "Coran," or "Quran." It is also important to note the definite article "al-" is sometimes included, as in "Al-Qur'an," meaning "The Qur'an." When writing, consistency is key; using "Qur'an" or "Quran" is generally recommended for formal contexts, while "Koran" is still encountered in many historical and general references.

Example Sentences

Many Muslims begin their day by reciting a portion of the Koran to seek blessings and guidance.

The intricate calligraphy of a Koranic verse adorned the dome of the ancient mosque, demonstrating the deep connection between Islamic art and scripture.

Scholars spend a lifetime engaged in Tafsir, the exegesis and interpretation of the Koran's nuanced meanings.

During the month of Ramadan, the complete text of the Koran is often recited in nightly prayers known as Tarawih.

The ethical injunctions within the Koran form the bedrock of Islamic finance principles, prohibiting usury and promoting equitable trade.

Her understanding of the faith deepened after she undertook a course to study the Koran in its original Arabic.

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