What should parents do if children treat Quran apps too casually compared to a physical mushaf? 

Parenting Perspective 

Teach That Respect Applies to All Formats 

A child might assume that the Quran on a phone does not require the same reverence as a physical mushaf. Parents should gently explain that the words of Allah are sacred regardless of the format. Saying, ‘The device itself is ordinary, but the words on the screen are from Allah, and that makes them sacred,’ helps a child understand that respect must be shown in every context. 

Model the Correct Behaviour 

Parents can demonstrate how to interact with Quran apps respectfully. This includes not opening the app in inappropriate places, avoiding multitasking while it is open, and giving it one’s full attention during recitation. By modelling this focused behaviour, parents show that digital convenience does not lessen our spiritual responsibility. 

Balance App Use with a Physical Mushaf 

While apps are incredibly useful, it is also important to encourage the use of a physical mushaf in the home. Keeping a mushaf in a place of honour, such as in the prayer area, serves as a constant physical reminder of the Quran’s special status. By blending digital and physical use, children learn to value both, understanding that the words of Allah deserve the utmost respect in every form. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Weightiness of the Quran 

The Quran describes its own spiritual weight as being so immense that it would humble a mountain. This powerful imagery reminds us that the words of Allah demand our humility and respect, regardless of the medium through which we access them. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashar (59), Verse 21: 

‘ If We were to reveal the whole of the Quran upon a mountain, you would surely observe the yielding and the obliteration to bits (of the mountain) with the awe (of the manifestation and reflection of the intensity and power of this Attribute) of Allah Almighty; and with these examples We have presented to mankind (an opportunity) so that they may become realised people.‘ 

The Immense Reward for Recitation 

Every single letter recited from the Book of Allah carries a multiplied reward. This applies equally whether one is reciting from a physical mushaf or a digital app, reminding us to approach either format with a focused and sincere heart. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 2910, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah will receive one good deed, and each good deed is multiplied by ten. I do not say that Alif Lam Meem is one letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.’ 

The Sanctity is in the Words, Not the Format 

By teaching reverence, modelling the correct conduct, and balancing app use with the physical mushaf, parents help their children to understand a crucial lesson. They learn that the sanctity of the Quran is not diminished by its format, and that whether it is on a screen or on paper, it remains the word of Allah, deserving of our full respect and devotion.