Reading is More Than a Hobby A necessity

There was a time when reading was seen as something natural—almost a part of everyday life. Today, it often feels like an option, something we turn to only when we have nothing else to do. Many of us spend hours on our phones, scrolling endlessly, yet hesitate to spend even a few minutes with a book. Somewhere along the way, reading quietly shifted from being a need to being treated like a hobby.

But if we pause and think for a moment, we realize that reading has never truly been optional. It is through reading that we understand, learn, and grow. Long before us, the very first command given to humanity was to read, reminding us that knowledge is the foundation of everything. Reading is not just about finishing pages—it is about opening our minds, shaping our thoughts, and finding direction in a world full of noise.

The Quiet Power of Reading

Reading has a way of changing us quietly. It doesn’t demand attention the way screens do, but it leaves a deeper impact. When we read, we are not just going through words—we are training our minds to think, to reflect, and to understand things beyond the surface. It builds a kind of awareness that stays with us in our daily lives, shaping how we see situations and how we respond to them. Over time, this quiet habit becomes a strong foundation for clarity and confidence.

A Connection to Knowledge and Faith

In Islam, seeking knowledge is not just encouraged, it is valued deeply. The first word revealed—Iqra (Read)—is a reminder that learning is a lifelong responsibility. Reading becomes more than just an activity; it becomes a means of getting closer to understanding our purpose. Whether it is religious knowledge or beneficial worldly knowledge, every bit of learning adds meaning to our lives. It helps us make better choices, strengthens our beliefs, and keeps us grounded.

Breaking Free from Distractions

It is hard to ignore how much time we spend on our phones today. Hours pass without us even realizing it. While these things entertain us for a while, they rarely stay with us in a meaningful way. Reading, on the other hand, asks for a little patience but gives something lasting in return. It teaches us to slow down, to focus, and to invest our time in something that actually benefits us. Even a small shift—from scrolling to reading—can bring a noticeable change in how we think and use our time.

Growing Into a Better Version of Ourselves

Reading is not about how many books we finish; it is about how much we grow. It improves the way we express ourselves, helps us understand others, and encourages us to reflect on our own actions. It opens doors to ideas we may have never considered before. Slowly, without us even realizing it, reading shapes our character and mindset. It becomes a tool for self-improvement, guiding us towards becoming more thoughtful, aware, and purposeful individuals.

In the end, reading is not something we should delay or treat as optional. It is a path that shapes our thoughts, strengthens our understanding, and brings us closer to what truly matters. When Allah’s first command was “Iqra” — Read — it was not just an instruction, but a direction for life. It reminds us that seeking knowledge is part of our purpose. Even a small habit of reading each day can slowly transform us, making us more aware, thoughtful, and grounded. In a world full of distractions, choosing to read is choosing growth. If we wish to better ourselves for both this life and the hereafter, we must begin with this simple yet powerful step—opening a book and opening our hearts.

Author: Sidratul Zuha Mohammad, Kakinada Unit, GIO Andhra Pradesh.

Date: 1 May 2026.

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