What is the Quran? Do people who read it by heart receive forgiveness for bad deeds?

 The Quran, also spelled as Qur'an, is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years. It is considered the final and complete revelation, superseding earlier scriptures such as the Torah and the Bible. The Quran is written in Arabic and is divided into chapters called surahs, which are further divided into verses called ayahs.

Muslims regard the Quran as a source of guidance for all aspects of life, including moral, spiritual, and legal matters. Reading, reciting, and memorizing the Quran are highly encouraged practices within the Islamic tradition.

Regarding the idea of receiving forgiveness for bad deeds by reading the Quran by heart, it's important to clarify a few points:

1. **Recitation and Memorization (Hifz):** Memorizing the Quran is highly regarded in Islam, and those who achieve this are known as "Hafiz" or "Hafiza." Memorizing the Quran is considered a significant accomplishment, and it is believed to bring spiritual rewards. However, the act of memorization itself does not automatically guarantee forgiveness for bad deeds.

2. **Intentions and Actions:** Islam emphasizes the importance of sincere intentions and righteous actions. While reciting or memorizing the Quran is a virtuous act, true forgiveness is believed to come from sincere repentance, seeking God's mercy, and striving to live a righteous life. The Quran itself emphasizes the importance of faith coupled with good deeds for attaining forgiveness and salvation.

3. **Understanding and Application:** Islam encourages believers not only to recite or memorize the Quran but also to understand its meanings and apply its teachings in daily life. The Quran serves as a guide for ethical behavior, and following its guidance is integral to the concept of seeking forgiveness.

In summary, while memorizing the Quran is a virtuous act in Islam, the key to forgiveness in Islamic belief lies in sincere repentance, good deeds, and a righteous way of life. Reading or memorizing the Quran is seen as a means of deepening one's connection with God and aligning one's life with the teachings of the Quran.