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Tajweed rules
5. makharij al huroof | The Points of Articulation for Perfect Quran Recitation
Introduction
Reciting the Quran with proper Tajweed is a spiritual and linguistic endeavor that enhances both the beauty and meaning of the Quran. Tajweed, which literally means ‘to improve’ or ‘to make good,’ refers to the set of rules governing the pronunciation of the letters of the Arabic alphabet as they appear in the Quran. It ensures that every letter is pronounced correctly, with all its inherent qualities, and that the sound flows beautifully, preserving the original revelation. For those seeking to deepen their connection with the Quran, understanding and applying Tajweed is paramount. This guide will delve into the points of articulation (Makharij al-Huruf ) that are crucial for achieving perfect Quran recitation. Many find that to truly master Quran recitation, it’s beneficial to learn Quran online with Tajweed, where expert guidance can illuminate the path to flawless recitation.
The Points of Articulation (Makharij al-Huruf)
The points of articulation are the places in the mouth and throat where the sound of a letter originates. There are five primary areas, each with specific points for various letters, ensuring precise pronunciation.
I. The Oral Cavity (Al-Jawf) for Pronouncing Long Vowels
Al-Jawf, often referred to as the ’empty space,’ encompasses the entire cavity extending from the the deepest part of the throat, into the mouth. It is a unique because it is not a fixed, tangible point but rather an open space from which the sounds of the three long vowels (also known as Madd letters) emerge. The letters articulated from Al-Jawf are:
- Alif (ا): When preceded by a Fatḥah.
- Wāw (و): When preceded by a Ḍammah.
- Yāʼ (ي): When preceded by a Kasrah.
A classic example combining these letters is the word نُوحِيهَا, where each long vowel is pronounced from the vastness of the oral cavity. This foundational understanding is vital for anyone who wants to learn Quran online with Tajweed, as it lays the groundwork for proper vowel elongation.
II. The Throat (Al-Ḥalq) – Three Articulation Points for Six Letters
The throat, or Al-Ḥalq, is home to six distinct letters, each originating from one of its three points. Mastering these sounds is fundamental for accurate Quranic recitation. The three points of Articulation in this Makhraj are:
- Deepest part of the throat: This is the origin for the letters Hamzah (ء) and Hāʼ (هـ). These sounds are produced from the lowest part of the throat,at the Vocal Chords.
2. Middle of the throat: The letters ʿAyn (ع) and Ḥāʼ (ح) are articulated from the middle section of the throat.
3. Closest part of the throat: Ghayn (غ) and Khāʼ (خ) are produced from the uppermost part of the throat.
III. The Tongue (Al-Lisān) – Ten Articulation Points for Eighteen Letters
The tongue, Al-Lisān, is arguably the most versatile and complex articulation organ, responsible for producing eighteen letters across ten distinct points. Its interaction with various parts of the mouth—the palate, gums, and teeth—allows for a wide range of sounds. Understanding these intricate movements is a cornerstone of Tajweed, and often a significant part of the curriculum when you learn Quran online with Tajweed. The tongue’s articulation points are:
- Deepest part of the tongue + the opposite upper soft palate: This point produces the letter Qāf (ق). It’s a deep, emphatic sound.
- Deepest part of the tongue (slightly before Qāf) + the opposite upper soft and hard palate: The letter Kāf (ك) originates here, which is a light letter when compared with letter Qāf (ق).
2. Middle tongue + the opposite upper palate: Jīm (ج), Shīn (ش), and the letter (non-vowel) Yāʼ (ي) are articulated from this central part of the tongue.
3. Sides of the tongue + upper molars: The unique and often challenging letter Ḍād (ض) is formed when one or both sides of the tongue press against the upper molar teeth.
4. Nearest part of the sides of the tongue and its tip + the opposite upper gums of the first two upper premolars, the two upper canines, the two upper lateral incisors, and the two upper front incisors: Lām (ل) sound is produced here.
5. Tip of the tongue + the opposite upper gums of the two top front incisors: Nūn (ن) is pronounced here, its articulation point is slightly beneath the articulation point of the Lām letter.
6. Tip of the tongue + the opposite upper gums of the two top front incisors after the makhraj of noon: Rāʼ (ر) is formed here, through striking the gums.
7. Top side of the tip of the tongue + the gum line (root) of upper two front incisors: Ṭāʼ (ط), Dāl (د), and Tāʼ (ت) are produced by the tip of the tongue touching the base of the upper front teeth. Note: the gum line is exactly where the gum meets the teeth.
8. Tip of the tongue + the plates of the two lower incisors: Sīn (س), Ṣād (ص), and Zāy (ز) are articulated with a small gap between the tongue tip and the plates of the teeth. The sound passes above the two front lower incisors. Note: the term “plate” refers to the long axis of the tooth
9. Top side of the tip of the tongue + edges of upper teeth (the two top front incisors): Thāʼ (ث), Dhāl (ذ), and Ẓāʼ (ظ).
IV. The Lips (Ash-Shafatān) – Two Articulation Points
Ash-Shafatān, or the lips, are responsible for articulating four letters, utilizing two primary points of articulation.
- Between both lips: This point produces Bāʼ (ب) and Mīm (م) and the non-vowel Wāw (و). The Bā is articulated by closing the two lips together, a stronger closing than Mīm. while, Mīm is articulated by closing the two lips together, sharing ghunnah (nasalization) from the nasal cavity. The non-vowel Wāw (و) is articulated by forming a circle of the two lips.
- the inside of the Lower lip + the tips of the ttwo front incisors: The letter Fāʼ (ف).
V. The Nasal Cavity (Al-Khayashīm- الخيشوم) – The Source of Ghunnah
Al-Khayashīm, the nasal cavity, is the exclusive articulation point for the ghunnah. This sound is integral to the pronunciation of certain letters and is a hallmark of beautiful Quranic recitation. While the ghunnah is always present with Mīm (م) and Nūn (ن), it is particularly strong with Nūn. Understanding and applying the correct duration and strength of ghunnah is a key aspect of Tajweed, often requiring dedicated practice.
The ghunnah manifests in five levels of strength:
1.Mushaddad (doubled letters): This is the strongest level, occurring with doubled Mīm or Nūn, such as in آمَـنَّـا.
2.Idghām (merging with ghunnah): When a Nūn Sakinah (Nūn with sukoon) or Tanween merges with certain letters, producing a ghunnah, as seen in فَمَن يُؤْمِن.
3.Ikhfāʼ (hidden pronunciation): This involves a hidden or light ghunnah when Nūn Sakinah or Tanween precedes certain letters, like in كُنتُمْ بِهِ.
4.Iẓhār (clear pronunciation with sukūn): Here, the Nūn Sakinah or Tanween is pronounced clearly without ghunnah, though a slight natural nasal quality may still be present.
- letters with vowels: The weakest level, where Mīm or Nūn have a vowel (Fatḥah, Ḍammah, or Kasrah).
The first three levels—Mushaddad, Idghām, and Ikhfāʼ—require a two-count ghunnah for proper Tajweed, adding a melodic quality to the recitation.
Embark on Your Tajweed Journey
Mastering these five articulation areas is a significant step towards reciting the Quran with the beauty and precision it deserves. Each letter, when pronounced correctly from its proper makhraj, contributes to the profound impact of the divine words. While this guide provides a foundational understanding, perfecting Tajweed truly requires dedicated practice and expert guidance. This is where the opportunity to learn Quran online with Tajweed becomes invaluable. Online platforms offer personalized instruction from qualified teachers who can provide immediate feedback, correct subtle errors, and guide you through the nuances of each articulation point and rule.
By choosing to learn Quran online with Tajweed, you can:
- Master articulation points (makharij): Receive one-on-one attention to refine your pronunciation.
- Improve pronunciation & fluency: Develop a natural flow in recitation.
- Recite the Quran like the Prophet (PBUH): Strive for the highest standard of recitation, following the Sunnah.
Don’t let the complexities of Tajweed deter you (it is easy if you willing to study). Start your journey today and gain the confidence to recite the Quran beautifully and accurately.
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