Tajweed Al- Qur’an: Be with the Honourable and Obedient Scribes

Mastering the Art of Tajweed:

Tajweed, an essential aspect of Quranic recitation, holds a profound significance in the realm of Islamic studies. But First What is Tajweed?

Understanding Tajweed: Tajweed, derived from the Arabic root (ja-wa-da), signifies improvement and proficiency. Originating from the need for accurate Quranic recitation in the same way that Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) learned from Jibreel, Tajweed emphasizes not only proper pronunciation and articulation of Arabic letters but also the precise application of rules governing phonetics, rhythm, and melody.

It aims to preserve the integrity of the Quran’s message through meticulous adherence to its linguistic nuances and divine essence.

Tajweed encompasses various aspects of Quranic recitation, including phonetics, rhythm, and melody.

Here’s how each aspect relates to Tajweed:

• Phonetics: Tajweed rules dictate the proper pronunciation of Arabic letters and sounds. It ensures that each letter is articulated correctly with its distinct characteristics, such as the pronunciation of heavy and light letters, nasal sounds, and the proper pronunciation of letters with similar articulation points. By adhering to Tajweed rules, reciters maintain the clarity and accuracy of the Quranic text.
• Rhythm: Tajweed also governs the rhythm or flow of Quranic recitation. It guides reciters on when to elongate or shorten vowels, pause at appropriate places, and maintain a balanced pace while reciting. This rhythmic aspect enhances the beauty and melodiousness of the recitation, making it more engaging and spiritually uplifting for both the reciter and the listener.
• Melody: Tajweed incorporates the concept of “tarteel,” which refers to the melodious and rhythmic recitation of the Quran. Reciters learn to recite with a melodious tone while still adhering to Tajweed rules. This melodious recitation not only adds beauty to the Quranic recitation but also helps in memorization and spiritual connection with the text.

The Virtue of Mastering Quranic Recitation as reflected in some Hadiths

– Reciters of Al- Qur’an will be in the company of the righteous and obedient angels.

‘Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “The one who is proficient in the recitation of the Qur’an will be with the honorable and obedient scribes (angels) and he who recites the Qur’an and finds it difficult to recite, doing his best to recite it in the best way possible, will have two rewards.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

– You will be among the best of people.

‘Uthman bin ‘Affan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “The best amongst you is the one who learns the Qur’an and teaches it.”

[Al-Bukhari].

– There are ten rewards for every letter you recite.

Ibn Mas’ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will be credited with a good deed, and a good deed gets a ten-fold reward. I do not say that Alif-Lam-Mim is one letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter and Mim is a letter.”

[At- Tirmidhi].

– The Quran will guide you to Jannah.

‘Abdallah b. ‘Amr reported Allah’s messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم) as saying, “Fasting and the Qur’an intercede for a man. Fasting says, ‘O my Lord, I have kept him away from his food and his passions by day, so accept my intercession for him.’ The Qur’an says, ‘I have kept him away from sleep by night, so accept my intercession for him.’ Then their intercession is accepted.”

[Baihaqi transmitted it in Shu’ab al-iman].

How to Start your Tajweed Learning Journey?

• Understand the Importance: Recognize the significance of Tajweed in preserving the integrity of the Quranic text and enhancing your spiritual connection with it. Understanding why Tajweed is important can motivate you to commit to your learning journey.
• Seek Knowledgeable Guidance: Find a qualified Tajweed teacher or enroll in a reputable online course to receive structured guidance. A knowledgeable instructor can provide personalized feedback and support to help you progress effectively.

Don’t Forget to Check out our courses’ full information, browse them all and decide which to start with.

• Start with the Basics: Begin your Tajweed journey by learning the foundational rules, such as proper pronunciation of Arabic letters, characteristics of letters (heavy, light, etc.), and basic articulation points. Building a strong foundation will make it easier to grasp more advanced concepts later on.
• Practice Regularly: Dedicate consistent time to practice Tajweed exercises and recite Quranic verses regularly. Repetition is key to internalizing the rules and improving your pronunciation and fluency.
• Listen to Expert Recitations: Listen to recitations by expert Quranic reciters to observe proper Tajweed in action. Pay attention to their pronunciation, rhythm, and melody, and try to emulate their style in your own recitation.
• Use Resources Wisely: Utilize a variety of learning resources, such as textbooks, online videos, mobile apps, and audio recordings, to supplement your learning. Choose resources that suit your learning style and cater to your specific needs.
• Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from your teacher or peers on your Tajweed recitation. Constructive criticism can help identify areas for improvement and guide your practice sessions.

In our academy, Ulum Al-Azhar, we guide you step by step through your Tajweed Studies Mastery and give you regular feedback at three different levels: beginners, intermediates, and advanced.

• Review and Revise: Regularly review previously learned Tajweed rules and revise your recitation to ensure retention. Repetition and revision are essential for reinforcing learning and maintaining proficiency.
• Pray for Guidance and Success: Finally, remember to pray for guidance and success in your Tajweed learning journey. Seek blessings from Allah (SWT) and approach your studies with sincerity and humility.

Why to Study with Ulum Al-Azhar Academy?

In Ulum Al-Azhar, we provide 5 different courses: Quran for Life – Introduction to Islamic Studies, Arabic Studies – Arabic Communication Training, Tajweed rules | Tajweed Studies Mastery | 3 Levels, Private Quran & 10 Qiraat Classes, and 10 Qiraat Studies Mastery – Fundamentals & Foundation.

All of our courses offer lifetime access and cater to all skill levels. Furthermore, as we aim to build an intellectual bridge between Al-Azhar, Egypt, and Islamic communities worldwide, our offerings are overseen by a group of professors and scholars from Al-Azhar University.

With us, your religious education is in safe hands!