Reciting Quran for personal goals, is this allowed in Islam?

The practice of reciting the Qur'an for personal goals is addressed differently in Sunni and Shia traditions.

According to Sunni scholarship, as reflected in Tafsir Ibn Kathir, the recitation of the Qur'an is highly encouraged and is considered an act of worship. The Qur'an serves as guidance and provides spiritual benefits. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have said: The one who recites the Qur'an and memorizes it is with the noble and righteous scribes in heaven. And the one who recites it and struggles with it, suffering hardship, will have double the reward. Sahih al-Bukhari 65:458SunniSAHIH. This indicates that reciting the Qur'an not only offers spiritual rewards but also can help individuals in their personal endeavors when done with the right intention.

In Shia scholarship, Majma al-Bayan highlights that supplicating while reciting the Qur'an can be beneficial for achieving personal goals. It is understood that the Qur'an is a means of seeking closeness to Allah and invoking His help. Additionally, Al-Kafi narrates a practice where one can pray two units of prayer and then recite whatever they wish, indicating that reciting the Qur'an for personal intentions is permissible. The emphasis is on the intention behind the recitation and ensuring it aligns with seeking goodness in one's life.

Overall, both Sunni and Shia traditions support the idea that reciting the Qur'an for personal aspirations is allowed, provided it is done with sincerity and the intention of seeking Allah’s guidance and assistance. For specific situations, consulting a qualified local scholar is advised.