Tajweed is the set of rules and guidelines for correctly pronouncing and reciting the Quran in Arabic. It ensures that each letter, word, and verse is articulated accurately, preserving the Quran’s purity and beauty. Tajweed rules book helps readers understand how to recite the Quran properly, and there are advanced Tajweed rules in English for learners.
Understanding the six rules of Tajweed rules is vital to the Quranic recitation. Each rule has a distinct meaning and differentiates in its application in the Quran. Those who learn the six types of Tajweed rules in Quran and master the art of Tajweed are able to beautify their Quranic recitation, bringing them closer to Allah (SWT).
The six distinct types to Learn Tajweed online are makharij-al-huroof, sifaat-al-huroof, noon and meem sakinah, ghunnah, qalqalah, and Waqf-al-ibtida. We have covered all six types of Tajweed covered here in detail along with their Quranic application. You will have developed a great understanding of them after reading this piece. Let’s get started to learn Quran tajweed online!
What are 10 Types of Tajweed
Now that you understand Tajweed basics and their importance for Quran readers and reciters, it’s time to understand and fully grasp these rules. With their Quranic applications, we will help you differentiate between them thoroughly.
1. Makharij al-Huroof (Articulation Points)
Makharij al-Huroof refers to the specific points in the mouth and throat where Arabic letters originate. Understanding these points is crucial as they determine how each letter is pronounced.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
In the Quranic text, we can find examples illustrating Makharij al-Huroof. Consider the word “قلب” (qalb), meaning heart, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:7). The letter “ق” originates from the back of the throat, and “ل” (lam) is articulated from the tip of the tongue.
In the Quranic text, we can find examples illustrating Makharij al-Huroof. Consider the word “قلب” (qalb), meaning heart, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:7). The letter “ق” originates from the back of the throat, and “ل” (lam) is articulated from the tip of the tongue.
Surah Al-Falaq (113:5)
قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ الْفَلَقِ
The letter “ق” (Qaf) in the word “الْفَلَقِ” originates from Al-Jawf. It is pronounced deep within the throat. Practicing the pronunciation of Qaf correctly from the hollow of the throat is crucial for accurate recitation.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261)
مَثَلُ الَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ أَمْوَالَهُمْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ كَمَثَلِ حَبَّةٍ أَنبَتَتْ سَبْعَ سَنَابِلَ فِي كُلِّ سُنبُلَةٍ مِّئَةُ حَبَّةٍ ۗ وَاللَّهُ يُضَاعِفُ لِمَن يَشَاءُ
The letter “م” (Meem) in the word “مِئَةُ” is an example of Ash-Shafataan. The pronunciation of Meem involves bringing the lips together. Clear enunciation of Meem is essential to convey the meaning accurately in this verse.
5 Types of Makharij-Al-Huroof
- Al-Jawf (The Hollow of the Throat)
Al-Jawf is the area deep within the throat where certain letters originate.
Examples: The Arabic letters originating from Al-Jawf include
- Alef (ا)
- Hamzah (ء)
- Al-Halq (The Throat)
Al-Halq is the part of the throat where the sound of some Arabic letters is produced.
Examples: The Arabic letters originating from Al-Halq include:
- Ha (ح)
- ‘Ain (ع)
- Ghain (غ)
- Al-Lisaan (The Tongue)
Al-Lisaan refers to the tongue, and certain Arabic letters are pronounced with the involvement of the tongue.
Examples: The Arabic letters originating from Al-Lisaan include
- Qaf (ق)
- Kaf (ك)
- Noon (ن)
- Ash-Shafataan (The Lips)
Ash-Shafataan refers to the two lips, and certain Arabic letters are pronounced by bringing the lips together.
Examples: The Arabic letters originating from Ash-Shafataan include:
- Ba (ب)
- Meem (م)
- Waw (و)
- Al-Khayshoom (The Nasal Cavity)
Al-Khayshoom refers to the nasal cavity, and certain Arabic letters are pronounced through the nose.
Examples: The Arabic letters originating from Al-Khayshoom include:
- Noon (ن) when accompanied by a Tanween (ًٌٍ)
- Meem (م) when accompanied by a Shaddah (ّ)
2. Sifaat al-Huroof (Attributes of Letters)
Sifaat al-Huroof, or Attributes of Letters, is a crucial aspect of Tajweed that focuses on the unique characteristics of Arabic letters. Each letter has specific attributes that affect its pronunciation, such as being heavy (tafkhim) or light (tarqiq), having qualities of elongation (madd), or other distinctive features.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197)
وَأَذِّنْ فِي النَّاسِ بِالْحَجِّ يَأْتُوكَ رِجَالًا وَعَلَىٰ كُلِّ ضَامِرٍ يَأْتِينَ مِن كُلِّ فَجٍّ عَمِيقٍ
In this verse, the letter “ق” (Qaf) in the word “الْحَجِّ” is pronounced with Tafkheem (emphasis). The heaviness of the pronunciation signifies the importance of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261)
مَثَلُ الَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ أَمْوَالَهُمْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ كَمَثَلِ حَبَّةٍ أَنبَتَتْ سَبْعَ سَنَابِلَ فِي كُلِّ سُنبُلَةٍ مِّئَةُ حَبَّةٍ ۗ وَاللَّهُ يُضَاعِفُ لِمَن يَشَاءُ
The letter “ش” (Sheen) in the word “سَبِيلِ” is pronounced with Isti’ala (elevated sound). This characteristic imparts a majestic and elevated quality to the pronunciation, emphasizing the noble act of spending in the way of Allah.
Two Types of Sifaat-Al-Huroof
- Sifaat Mutadaaddah
Sifaat Mutadaaddah refers to the characteristics of letters that allow for the continuous flow of breath when pronounced. Remembered with the phrase “فحثه شخص سكت,” these ten letters, known as whispere, facilitate smooth and uninterrupted pronunciation without causing a break in the breath.
- Sifaat Ghayr Mutadaaddah
Sifaat Ghayr Mutadaaddah involves letters where the breath is discontinued during pronunciation, characterized by a clear vibration of the vocal cords. The quality of jahr, or loudness, is found in the remaining 19 letters, known as مجهورة (majhoorah), including عظم وزن قارئ ذي غض جد طلب.
3. Noon Sakinah
Noon and Meem Sakinah is a Tajweed rule that deals with the correct pronunciation of the Arabic letters “ن” (noon) and “م” (meem) when they carry a sukoon (quiescent or stop) mark.
When encountering these letters with a sukoon, it’s important to pronounce them distinctly and with emphasis, without allowing airflow. These Noon Sakinah and Tanween rules ensure that words are pronounced accurately and help avoid mistakes or changes in the meaning of Quranic verses.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Fatihah (1:7)
وَإِيَّاكَ نَسْتَعِينُ
The word “نَسْتَعِينُ” contains a Noon Sakinah followed by the letter “سْتَ.” According to Tajweed rules, when Noon Sakinah is followed by the letter “سْتَ” or any other letter, it undergoes Ikhfaa. The Noon is slightly assimilated with the following “سْتَ,” resulting in a subtle and concealed pronunciation.
4 Rules of Noon Sakinah
- Izhar
Izhar refers to the clear and distinct pronunciation of Noon Saakin or Tanween without assimilation, making the sound evident and unaltered.
- Iqlab
Iqlab occurs when a letter “Baa” (ب) follows Noon Saakin or Tanween, leading to a distinct change in sound, resembling a “B” pronunciation.
- Idghaam
Idghaam involves merging Noon Saakin or Tanween with the following consonant, softening the transition and blending the two sounds smoothly.
- Ikhfaa
Ikhfaa is the concealment of Noon Saakin or Tanween, where the sound is subtly assimilated with the following consonant, creating a muted or hidden pronunciation.
4. Meem Sakinah
Meem Sakinah refers to a scenario in Arabic pronunciation where the letter Meem (م) is in a state of sukoon (sakinah), indicating a complete cessation of sound, either at the end of a word or within a word when followed by another letter.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Furqan (25:4)
وَقَالَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا إِنْ هَٰذَا إِلَّا إِفْكٌ افْتَرَاهُ وَأَعَانَهُ عَلَيْهِ قَوْمٌ آخَرُونَ ۖ وَقَدْ جَاؤُوا ظُلْمًا وَزُورًا
In the word “إِفْكٌ,” the Meem is in a state of sukoon, indicating Meem Sakinah. When Meem Sakinah is followed by a non-meem letter (like Qaf in this case), proper pronunciation involves a brief pause or cessation of sound on the Meem before transitioning to the next letter.
3 Rules of Meem Sakinah
- Al-Idgham Al-Shafawi
In Al-Idgham Al-Shafawi, when a Meem Sakinah is followed by another Meem, the pronunciation involves blending the two Meems together with a nasal sound (Ghunnah).
- Al-Iqlab Al-Shafawi
Al-Iqlab Al-Shafawi occurs when a Meem Sakinah is succeeded by the letter “Ba,” resulting in a pronounced assimilation of the two sounds with a nasal tone (Ghunnah).
- Al-Izhar Al-Shafawi
In Al-Izhar Al-Shafawi, when a Meem Sakinah is followed by any other letter, it is pronounced distinctly without assimilation, and there is no nasal sound (Ghunnah).
5. Ghunnah
Ghunnah is a Tajweed rule that produces a nasal sound when certain Arabic letters are followed by other specific nasal letters.
When you encounter these combinations, you should produce a humming or nasal sound briefly, like when you say “ng” in the English word “interesting.” This rule ensures the correct pronunciation of these letters and contributes to the melodious and harmonious recitation of the Quran.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Fil (105:5)
فَجَعَلَهُمْ كَعَصْفٍ مَّأْكُولٍ
In the word “مَّأْكُولٍ,” the Meem Sakinah is followed by a Meem, leading to Al-Idgham Al-Shafawi. As a result, there is a nasal sound (Ghunnah) in the pronunciation of the combined Meems, creating a distinct and melodious resonance in the recitation.
6. Qalqalah
Qalqalah is a Tajweed rule that involves adding a slight bouncing or echoing sound to certain Arabic letters when they carry a sukoon (quiescent or stop) mark. These letters are “ق” (qaf), “ط” (taa), “ب” (baa), “ج” (jeem), and “د” (dal).
When encountering a sukoon on any of these letters, you should pronounce them with a little bounce or echo effect, creating a subtle vibration. This rule adds rhythm and emphasis to the recitation and maintains the Quran’s eloquence and musicality.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197)
وَأَذِّنْ فِي النَّاسِ بِالْحَجِّ يَأْتُوكَ رِجَالًا وَعَلَىٰ كُلِّ ضَامِرٍ يَأْتِينَ مِن كُلِّ فَجٍّ عَمِيقٍ
In the word “ضَامِرٍ,” the letter “ق” (Qaf) falls under Qalqalah. The Qalqalah effect occurs on the Qaf, producing a slight bounce or echo sound when pronounced, adding a rhythmic quality to the recitation.
7. Waqf and Ibtida’ (Pausing and Starting)
Waqf and Ibtida’ are Tajweed rules that deal with when to pause and where to start when reciting the Quran. Waqf means pausing at specific points within the Quranic text, and Ibtida’ refers to where to start when you begin recitation.
These rules are essential for understanding the meaning and context of Quranic verses, ensuring you pause at the right places to convey the intended message and start from the appropriate points for accurate comprehension.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Fatiha (1:1-2)
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ ١ الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ ٢
The phrase “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ” marks the Ibtida’ (beginning) of Surah Al-Fatiha, and it is customary to pause (Waqf) after reciting this phrase. It signifies starting with the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate, before reciting the rest of the chapter.
8. Muldood
Muldood refers to the elongation of certain vowels in Arabic pronunciation, specifically Alif (ا), Ya (ي), and Waw (و), indicated by a written elongation symbol (Maddah) over the respective letter.
Example and Application in the Quranic Text
Surah Al-Muzzammil (73:4)
أَوْ زِدْ عَلَيْهِ وَرَتِّلِ الْقُرْآنَ تَرْتِيلًا
In the word “تَرْتِيلًا,” the Ya (ي) is elongated (Muldood) with a Maddah symbol ( ٓ). This elongation enhances the clarity and emphasis on the sound of the vowel, contributing to a deliberate and measured recitation of the Quran.
9. Tafkheem and Tarqeeq
Tafkheem (تَفْخِيم)
This term means to emphasize or pronounce a letter with added strength. When a letter is marked with a Tafkheem, it should be pronounced more prominently, with a slight heaviness. This aligns with the concept of heavy letters in Tajweed.
Heavy Letters (Mufakhkham)
These Tajweed letters demand a more pronounced emphasis during articulation, filling the mouth with their resonant echo. The heavy letters are:
- الطاء (Taa)
- الضاد (Dhaad)
- الصاد (Saad)
- الظاء (Dhaa)
- القاف (Qaaf)
- الغين (Ghain)
- الخاء (Khaa)
Tarqeeq (تَرْقِيق)
Tarqeeq means to lighten or pronounce a letter with less emphasis. When a letter is marked with Tarqeeq, it should be pronounced more softly, with reduced force. This aligns with the concept of light letters in Tajweed.
Light Letters (Muraqqaq)
Light Tajweed letters are pronounced with less emphasis. They encompass all Arabic letters except the six heavy ones mentioned earlier.
Letters that can be heavy or light:
1. Alif (ا)
- Heavy when following a heavy letter, as in the word غاشيّة (ghaashiya).
- Light when following a light letter, as in بسمِ الله (bismi-llaah).
2. Lam (ل)
- Pronounced heavy in the word الله when preceded by Dumma (ُ), like in يعلمُ الله (ya’lamu-llaah) or Fatha (َ), as in تاًلله (ta-llaah).
- Pronounced light in the word الله if it follows Kasra (ِ), as in بسمِ الله (bismi-llaah), and in other words like الليل (al-layl), يلفظ (yulfiḍ), and هل أتى (hal ataa).
3. Ra (ر)
Makhraj: The tongue touches the upper part of the middle of the mouth’s roof while slightly pushing against the gums of the upper incisors.
Sifat: It is a “Muraqqaq” letter, meaning it is pronounced with a moderate level of emphasis, neither too heavy nor too light.
Rules
- When ‘Ra’ has a vowel (harakah) with Damma (ُ) or Kasra (ِ), it is pronounced in a standard manner.
- When ‘Ra’ has a Fatha (َ), it tends to be heavier, with a slightly emphasized sound.
- The pronunciation may vary slightly based on the letters before and after it, showcasing the interconnected nature of Tajweed rules.
Example Words
- Standard Pronunciation: رجل (rajul) – meaning “man.”
- Heavier Pronunciation: فرح (farḥ) – meaning “joy.”
10. Al-Isti’aathah & Al-Basmalah
Al-Isti’aathah (الاستعاذة)
This phrase is often referred to as “Seeking Refuge.” It involves saying “A’udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim” before starting to recite the Quran. In easy terms, it means seeking protection with Allah from the accursed devil. Reciting Al-Isti’aathah is a practice to seek Allah’s refuge and help before engaging with the sacred text,
Al-Basmalah (البسملة)
Al-Basmalah is the phrase “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim,” which translates to “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.” It is recited at the beginning of most chapters (Surahs) of the Quran.
6 Rules of Al-Isti’aathah & Al-Basmalah
- One “Seeking Refuge” is enough for the entire Quran, but recommended at each surah’s start.
- Begin every surah with “In the name of Allah” (Basmalah), except Surah Al-Tawbah.
- In the middle of a surah, choose whether to say Basmalah—it’s better but optional.
- You can combine “Seeking Refuge” with Basmalah at the start of a surah.
- Between two surahs, Basmalah can be joined or cut, but not both.
- No Basmalah at the start of Surah Al-Tawbah; “Seeking Refuge” is sufficient.
How to Pronounce Tajweed Rules
| Tajweed Rule | Pronunciation | Mouth Parts Used | Technique |
| 1. Makharij al-Huroof | Articulation points of each letter | Tongue, lips, throat | Clearly pronounce each letter from its point of origin |
| 2. Sifaat al-Huroof | Characteristics of letters | Tongue, palate, lips | Emphasize the unique traits of each letter |
| 3. Noon and Meem Sakinah | Pronouncing Noon and Meem when vowelled or silent | Tongue, nasal passage | Distinguish between vowels and silent pronunciation |
| 4. Ghunnah | Nasal sound produced with certain letters | Tongue, nasal passage | Create a nasal tone with specific letters |
| 5. Qalqalah | The bouncing or echoing sound in certain letters | Tongue, throat | Add a slight bounce or echo to specific letters |
| 6. Waqf and Ibtida’ | Rules of pausing and starting recitation | Breath, tongue, lips | Properly pause and start recitation at appropriate points |
How Long Does it Take to Study Tajweed?
The time it takes to study Tajweed can vary depending on a person’s age and dedication. For instance, a youngster between the ages of 5 and 8 may quickly finish learning the Quran in three years, as their young minds are highly adaptable to language acquisition. On the other hand, adults can learn Tajweed in just one year with focused effort and consistent practice.
However, children might need up to two years to master Tajweed rules, as their learning pace may be slower than adults. Regardless of age, mastering Tajweed is a valuable endeavor, ensuring accurate Quranic recitation and a deeper understanding of the text.
Importance of Tajweed
The importance of Tajweed cannot be overstated for Quran readers.
- Firstly, it allows readers to recite the Quran exactly as it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), ensuring the preservation of its divine message.
- Tajweed also enhances comprehension, as accurate pronunciation aids in understanding the Quranic text.
- Furthermore, it enhances the spiritual experience of recitation, fostering a deep connection with the Quran’s teachings.
Tajweed is a valuable tool for anyone seeking to engage with the Quran in a meaningful and authentic way, and it can be easily accessed through Tajweed rules books and resources available in English, making it accessible to a wider audience. You can also read about the rules of Waqf in Quran, which helps in reading and recitation in the best way possible to learn tajweed at home.
Join Hidayah Network to Learn Tajweed Online
For those interested in learning Tajweed, Hidayah Network offers comprehensive tajweed classes for adults and kids. Their courses provide all the necessary learning materials and content and are conducted by experienced teachers who are experts in Tajweed rules. Hidayah Network’s tutors’ interactive teaching style ensures that learners receive personalized guidance and can progress at their own pace, making mastering Tajweed accessible and effective for individuals of all ages.
Final Words
If you want to experience the Quran’s full beauty, authenticity, and spiritual depth, you need to learn tajweed. Accurate recitation of the Quran is possible with the help of Tajweed, which includes the principles of Makharij al-Huroof, Sifaat al-Huroof, Noon and Meem Sakinah, Ghunnah, Qalqalah, Waqf, and Ibtada’.
Whether you’re a kid or an adult, it’s worth your time to learn and master these guidelines. Remember that Hidayah Network is here to assist you in developing a deeper and more meaningful relationship with the Quran via its extensive courses and expert instructors.
Most Important FAQs
How many Tajweed do we have?
There are numerous Tajweed rules, but some of the fundamental ones include Makharij al-Huroof, Sifaat al-Huroof, Noon and Meem Sakinah, Ghunnah, Qalqalah, Waqf, and Ibtida’.
What are the different styles of Tajweed?
The different styles of Tajweed refer to various methods and approaches to reciting the Quran with proper pronunciation and rules adherence. Some common styles include Hafs, Warsh, Qalun, and Al-Duri.
What are the 4 Tajweed rules?
The different styles of Tajweed refer to various methods and approaches to reciting the Quran with proper pronunciation and rules adherence. Some common styles include Hafs, Warsh, Qalun, and Al-Duri.
What are the 4 types of MADD?
The four types of Madd (elongation) in Tajweed are:
- Madd Munfasil: The separation elongation.
- Madd Munfasil Lazim: The continuous separation elongation.
- Madd Jaiz Munfasil: The permissible separation elongation.
- Madd Far’i: The secondary elongation.
How many Tajweed rules are there?
Many Tajweed rules cover various aspects of Quranic recitation, including pronunciation, attributes of letters, elongation, nasalization, and more.
Who invented Tajweed?
A single individual did not invent Tajweed as a set of rules for proper Quranic recitation. It evolved as Islamic scholars and experts in Quranic studies worked to preserve the accurate pronunciation and recitation of the Quran.
