Tajweed is the science of reciting the Quran correctly, preserving the exact pronunciation and characteristics of each Arabic letter. Learning Tajweed is not just recommended but essential for every Muslim who wants to recite the Quran as it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
1. Noon Saakinah and Tanween Rules (أحكام النون الساكنة والتنوين)
These are among the most frequently applied Tajweed rules in the Quran:
Izhar (الإظهار) - Clear Pronunciation
When Noon Saakinah or Tanween is followed by any of the throat letters (ء, ه, ع, ح, غ, خ), the noon sound is pronounced clearly without nasalization (ghunnah).
Idgham (الإدغام) - Merging
When Noon Saakinah or Tanween is followed by one of these letters (ي, ر, م, ل, و, ن), the noon sound merges into the following letter.
Iqlab (الإقلاب) - Conversion
When Noon Saakinah or Tanween is followed by the letter Baa (ب), the noon sound converts to a meem with nasalization.
Ikhfa (الإخفاء) - Concealment
When Noon Saakinah or Tanween is followed by the remaining 15 letters, the noon sound is partially concealed with nasalization.
2. Meem Saakinah Rules (أحكام الميم الساكنة)
Ikhfa Shafawi
Concealment when followed by Baa
Idgham Shafawi
Merging when followed by Meem
Izhar Shafawi
Clear pronunciation with other letters
3. Madd (مد) - Lengthening Rules
Madd rules govern the elongation of vowel sounds in Quran recitation:
| Type of Madd | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Madd Tabee'i | 2 Harakah | Natural elongation |
| Madd Al-Badal | 2 Harakah | Substitute elongation |
| Madd Al-Iwad | 2 Harakah | Compensation elongation |
| Madd Al-Aarid Lis Sukoon | 2,4,6 Harakah | Temporary stopping elongation |
| Madd Al-Leen | 2,4,6 Harakah | Soft letters elongation |
| Madd Al-Laazim | 6 Harakah | Necessary elongation |
4. Characteristics of Letters (صفات الحروف)
Each Arabic letter has inherent characteristics that affect its pronunciation:
Opposite Characteristics:
- Hams vs Jahr (Whispering vs Voiced)
- Shiddah vs Rikhwah (Strength vs Softness)
- Istifaal vs Itbaaq (Low vs Elevated)
- Infitah vs Ithbaq (Openness vs Adherence)
Points of Articulation (مخارج الحروف):
- Empty space in mouth and throat
- Throat (3 levels)
- Tongue (10 points)
- Lips (2 points)
- Nasal passage (1 point)
Practice Tips for Mastering Tajweed:
- Start with a qualified teacher who can correct your mistakes
- Practice regularly, even if it's just 15 minutes daily
- Listen to renowned Qaris and try to imitate their pronunciation
- Record your recitation and compare it with expert reciters
- Be patient - mastering Tajweed takes time and consistent effort
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