Muslims believe the Qur'an is the literal speech of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ over about 23 years, and preserved word-for-word since then — memorised by generations of Muslims and never altered.

It is not a biography of the Prophet ﷺ or a history book, though it contains both guidance and stories of earlier prophets; it is primarily a book of guidance meant to be read, recited, reflected on, and lived, a little at a time.

You do not need to read Arabic to begin. Start with a translation in a language you understand, in any order that interests you, and let familiarity with the Arabic recitation grow gradually alongside your prayer.