In the name of Allah the Most Gracious the Most Merciful

Is forgetting a verse/chapter of the Qur’an a sin?

Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Aziz bin Abdillah bin Baaz may Allah have mercy on him

Question: There are young boys who memorize the Qur’an however they forget a lot. Are they committing a sin because of that?

Answer: I advise them to be diligent in memorizing the Qur’an, and they are not harmed by forgetfulness. Therefore, (they should) fear Allah as much as they are able to. The Prophet (peace be upon him) would forget some verses of the Qur’an, and he was the Messenger of Allah. He would say:

“Verily I am a human being like you. I forget just as you forget.” [Muslim]

So there is no sin if forgetfulness occurs. As for the hadith,

“No man recites the Qur’an, then forgets it, but will meet Allah on the Day of Judgment in a maimed condition (or empty-handed, or with no excuse)” [Abu Dawud]

Then this hadith is not authentic and is weak. Man should be diligent in memorizing the Qur’an and being keen in doing so. Implement the causes (that will aid in memorizing) and success is in Allah’s Hands. If they were to forget some verses or chapters then it is no sin, and they should continue to strive.

Taken from: Fataawa Bin Baaz

Translated by: Michael AbdusSalaam Deonarain

الفقير الى الله