[MENTION=37232]popsthebuilder[/MENTION]:
this topic has 2 aspects:
1: To Recite Quran
2: To Understand the msg of Quran
You emphasise on one aspect only. I agree how you can understand if you don't know Arabic. True, for it you need translation and interpretation. Quran in several verses emphasises to understand the msg of quran so that you may be guided from darkness to light of truth.
Moreover, for deep understanding even Arabic speaking people need the quranic exegesis and interpretation.
As far as recitation is concerned, it's the separate Islamic science. Lowest level, obligatory upon every Muslim is to learn how to pronounce each letter and pausing or stopping at the end of verse.
Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy Qur’an:
ورَتلناه ترتيلا
“And with tarteel We have revealed it i.e. the Qur’an”
Also we have been ordered to recite the Qur’an with tarteel;
Allah Ta’ala says,
ورتل القرأن ترتيلا
“And recite the Qur’an with tarteel”
From the above two verses, it becomes obligatory on us to recite the Qur’an with tarteel.
Q: How will you read the translation of quranic verses with Tarteel in prayer....?
*.Tajweed is the science of the rules of recitation of the Quran. Reciting with tajweed means that one is applying the rules of tajweed. A related word is “mujawwad”.
*.Tarteel means reading as the Prophet (PBUH) used to recite and as he was ordered to by Allah. [wa rattil il-Qurana tarteela] (Muzzammil 4).
*.When asked about the meaning of Tarteel, Ali (Radhiallahu Anhu) replied, ‘It means that the Qur’an should be recited with Tajweed and with due observance to the rules of Waqf (pausing or stopping at the end of the verse).’
Prophet s.a.w said:
''Read and elevate (through the levels of the Paradise) and beautify your voice as you used to do when you were in the dunyaa! For verily, your position in the Paradise will be at the last verse you recite!”(Abu Dawood)
Think:
It manifests the importance of recitation. It's nothing to do with understanding the verses
Prophet s.a.w said:
“Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah, he will have a reward. And that reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that “Alif, Laam, Meem” is a letter, rather I am saying that “Alif” is a letter, “laam” is a letter and “meem” is a letter.”(Tirmidhi)
Think:
This reward is specific for recitation of quranic verses. Alif, laam, meem can't be translated. It means reward is given on each letter/word of quranic verses whether or not you understand its meaning.
our beloved Prophet (SAW) said:“Verily the one who recites the Quran beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have TWICE that reward.”(Sahih Al-Bukhari)
Think:
Melodious voice or stammering has nothing to do with translation . It's definitely related to original Arabic text.