The practice of dividing the Quran into ruku’ sections originated in South Asia, specifically in the Indian subcontinent. It was not established during the time of the Prophet Muhammad or in the early Islamic period. This may be the reason for the confusion and lack of recognition of ruku’ divisions worldwide.
In South Asia, the concept of ruku’ developed as a means to facilitate the recitation of the Quran during the special nightly prayers known as taraweeh, which are performed in the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Taraweeh prayers involve reciting a portion of the Quran each night, completing the entire recitation by the end of the month.
To make the recitation more manageable and organized, scholars and individuals began dividing the Quran into smaller sections. These sections came to be known as ruku’ (meaning “bowing” or “stopping point”) because it is customary to pause and bow in prayer at the end of each ruku’.
The division of the Quran into ruku’ sections helped in better structuring the recitation during taraweeh prayers, ensuring that the reciter could easily complete one ruku’ in each unit of prayer. It also allowed for breaks and reflection between each section, facilitating a more focused and contemplative approach to reciting the Quran.
It is important to note that the division of the Quran into ruku’ sections is not universally recognized or practiced. Different Muslim communities and regions have their own methods of recitation and organization. Some follow the ruku’ divisions, while others may divide the Quran into other units, such as juz’ (parts) or hizb (half-parts).
It is worth mentioning that the Quran itself does not have any prescribed divisions into ruku’ or other units. The original Quranic text, as compiled during the time of the Prophet Muhammad and later standardized, is a continuous flow of verses without explicit divisions. The practice of dividing the Quran into smaller sections for recitation purposes is a later development that emerged to aid in the practicality and ease of recitation.
The practice of organizing the Quran into ruku’ sections originated in South Asia as a means to facilitate the recitation of the Quran during taraweeh prayers in Ramadan. It is not recognized worldwide, and different Muslim communities may have their own methods of recitation and division. The division into ruku’ sections is not inherent in the Quran itself but developed as a practical and organizational tool.