Rules of Noon and Meem Mushaddad

Introduction

When reading or reciting the Quran, it’s essential to follow the rules of Tajweed to ensure that the pronunciation is accurate and pleasing. One of these rules is the handling of Noon Mushaddad and Meem Mushaddad, where both the letters Noon (ن) and Meem (م) are accompanied by the Shaddah (ـّ), a diacritical mark that indicates the doubling of the letter. These letters require special attention in their pronunciation, particularly through a sound known as Ghunnah.

What Is Noon Mushaddad and Meem Mushaddad?

• Noon Mushaddad (نّ) refers to the letter Noon (ن) with the Shaddah mark on it, indicating it is doubled.

• Meem Mushaddad (مّ) refers to the letter Meem (م) with the Shaddah, indicating it is also doubled.

The Shaddah sign causes these letters to be pronounced with a specific emphasis, resulting in a longer sound when spoken, compared to their normal pronunciation without the Shaddah.

Rules for Pronouncing Noon and Meem Mushaddad

1. The Ghunnah Sound:

   When Noon or Meem is Mushaddad, the reader must produce a nasal sound (Ghunnah) that lasts for two beats.

2. Continuing the Ghunnah While Stopping:

   • If a reader stops on a word that ends with a Noon or Meem Mushaddad, they must still apply the Ghunnah. This means that even if the reciter pauses, the two beats of nasal sound should still be held on the letter.

   • For example, when stopping at a word like “لَتَرَوُنَّ“, the Noon Mushaddad still carries the Ghunnah, even if the reader pauses.