Title: Should We Learn Arabic Language? Question: Do you think it is an obligation upon muslims to learn Arabic as a lot of people don't really understand what they are reading during prayers. Mohammed Amjid Khan United Kingdom Answer: Islam does not put any obligation upon Muslims to learn Arabic language, but it doesn't mean that people, who do not know Arabic language, should content themselves with only reciting the divine message without understanding it. Since the Qur'an is in the Arabic language and likewise, many of the wordings in our prayers are compulsory to be read in Arabic, moreover, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) has also taught Muslims various supplications to recite in their prayers and at different states of their daily lives, which are also in Arabic language, therefore, it is definitely recommended for Muslims to get a basic knowledge of the Arabic language. Reading something directly in its original language is always better than reading its translation because it is extremely difficult to exactly reflect and translate the theme and all shades of the original text into the other language. If a Muslim manages to learn Arabic language, he, not only, can understand the meanings of these things easily, but also directly appreciate the different shades of words and their stresses. If one cannot manage to learn the Arabic language, he should then at least consult translations of these writings and try to understand their meanings. Islam is guidance for all human beings. It tells us how to live a successful life in this temporary world and how to achieve success in the Hereafter. One can never be able to correctly turn his life to the path mentioned by God if he is unaware of His divine guidance. Therefore, in my opinion, every Muslim should try his best to understand the meanings of the divine guidance so that he can understand the will of God and earn success in the life Hereafter. Ameer Abdul Basit July 13, 2002