At-Tibyan: Etiquette of the Bearers of the Quran – An-Nawawi [French]

At-Tibyan, a treatise on the etiquette of the readers of the Quran by An-Nawawi is a foundational work devoted to the ethical conduct that should accompany one’s relationship with the Book of Allah. It sets out principles of sincerity, respect and uprightness, reminding the reader that recitation and learning cannot be separated from behaviour befitting the dignity of the Quran.

From the outset, At-Tibyan, a treatise on the etiquette of the readers of the Quran by An-Nawawi states its purpose clearly: to gather, in a concise and accessible form, the essential guidelines governing conduct towards the Quran and those who carry it. The author emphasises usefulness and clarity, presenting the material in a streamlined manner to support memorisation and transmission, while preserving the meaning and intent of the cited texts. As a result, the book remains both practical and pedagogical.

The work begins by recalling the merits of the Quran, its recitation, and those who are among its bearers. It highlights the noble standing of the Quran reader within the community and stresses the respect due to them. At the same time, it warns against contempt, harm, or any form of negligence towards the bearers of the Book of Allah. These opening reminders establish the spiritual foundations upon which the subsequent guidance is built.

A significant portion of the book addresses the etiquette of teaching and learning the Quran. It discusses sincerity of intention, freedom from worldly motives, the teacher’s responsibilities towards the student, and the student’s conduct in gatherings of sacred knowledge. In this context, the book also echoes other classical writings on the ethics of knowledge, such as the Collection of sayings on knowledge and its merits by Imam Ibn Abd al-Barr, emphasising the central role of good character in the pursuit of religious learning.

The author then sets out the manners expected of the bearer of the Quran, followed by those related to recitation itself. He highlights inner states such as humility, reflection upon the verses, and a present heart, as well as outward etiquette during recitation. These chapters aim to make the reading of the Quran a conscious and meaningful act, far from a mechanical or careless recitation. Thus, At-Tibyan, a treatise on the etiquette of the readers of the Quran by An-Nawawi guides the reader towards a living and thoughtful relationship with the Quran.

The discussion also extends to the manners every Muslim should observe with the Quran, whether or not they recite frequently. It addresses respect for the mushaf, caution in discussions related to the Quran, and the importance of avoiding disputation and polemics. The book further mentions practical matters, including the recitation of specific verses or surahs in particular situations, as well as guidelines connected to writing the Quran. Finally, it concludes with a complementary section that clarifies key terms and linguistic points, helping the reader resolve ambiguities and strengthen understanding.

Through its clear structure and rich guidance, At-Tibyan stands as a reference in Quranic ethics. It is intended for anyone seeking to align their relationship with the Quran with sincerity, respect and knowledge, so that conduct becomes a natural extension of recitation, learning and teaching the Book of Allah.