Here’s The Not-Scary Method of Starting Quran Tajweed!

What if I’m saying this wrong?

Did I pronounce that correctly?

Have you ever mumbled over Arabic words feeling a bit lost on how to pronounce them? 

Has your Quran recitation made you question if maybe your salat might not be counted? 

These are all typical questions and concerns when reading Quran. But we have an answer for you that is not scary or intimidating!

Has the thought of learning Quran tajweed crossed your mind, but you dismissed it, thinking it was too difficult? If this is you, keep reading!

Quran tajweed is a topic that gets people’s minds in a frenzy. Most think it’s filled with complicated rules that are impossible to recall when you need them.

Some mistake tajweed for reading Quran beautifully. 

The fundamental part of Quran tajweed is simply the pronunciation of letters! 

When you study tajweed deeply, you’ll learn rules like Qalqalah or Idghaam. But that is not a prerequisite to Quran recitation. 

Nor is it required to make your voice sound like a recording of the Quran. 

Why Every Muslim Must Know Quran Tajweed

Arabic is unique because each letter has a place where the sound originates. This is known as Makhaarij Al Huroof. It is the foundation of tajweed and what every Muslim must know. 

In Arabic, if the letter is not pronounced from the place it originates, the whole meaning changes. 

For example:

In Surah Al-Ikhlas – “Qul (Huwa Allahu Ahad)” (قُلْ) means “say,” which is similar to a ‘q’ sound. The correct pronunciation comes from the throat (قُلْ) whereas the incorrect pronunciation like “Kul” (كل) means “eat” comes from the front part of the mouth. 

Imagine this sound can change the word from ‘Say’ to ‘Eat,’ thereby changing the entire meaning of the Quranic verse. 

Reading with the wrong pronunciation can twist the meaning into something different. 

The probability of continuously distorting Allah’s Word is high without knowing the proper pronunciation. It is for this reason that a Muslim must learn the Quran tajweed. It is the hardest part of tajweed but necessary for reciting the Quran correctly. 

Quran Tajweed Versus Recitation

Umar bin Al-Khattab narrates: I heard Hisham bin Hakim reciting Surat Al-Furqan during the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him), and I listened to his recitation and noticed that he recited in several different ways which Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) had not taught me. I was about to jump over him during his prayer, but I controlled my temper. When he had completed his prayer, I put his upper garment around his neck, seized him by it, and said, “Who taught you this Sura which I heard you reciting?”

He replied, “Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) taught it to me.” I said, “You have told a lie, for Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) has taught it to me differently from yours.” So I dragged him to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) and said (to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)), “I heard this person reciting Surat Al-Furqan in a way which you haven’t taught me!” On that Allah’s Apostle said, “Release him, (O `Umar!) Recite, O Hisham!” Then he recited in the same way as I heard him reciting. Then Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “It was revealed in this way,” and added, “Recite, O `Umar!” I recited it as he had taught me. Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “It was revealed in this way. This Qur’an has been revealed to be recited in seven different ways, so recite it whichever (way) is easier for you (or read as much of it as may be easy for you). 

(Sahih al-Bukhari 4992)

So, what is Quran Tajweed

Quran tajweed is not the same as Quran recitation, and they are different.

The basics of tajweed are to give each letter its right and to pronounce Allah’s book error free and clear. 

This is important to understand so you don’t overwhelm yourself with the thought of rules. When the idea of learning tajweed pops into your mind, you should know it’s not as complicated as you think. 

Always remember that the core of Quran tajweed is letter recognition and proper pronunciation. 

Four Tips to Learn Tajweed

Here are some tips to start your journey of learning Quran tajweed. 

1. Work With a Teacher

The absolute best way to learn tajweed is with a teacher. 

There’s no easier and quicker way to see exactly how we should pronounce letters. A teacher can show you where to put your tongue. If the sound comes from your throat or not. If you’re getting the range correctly. And, of course, they are great to practice with since you get immediate feedback. 

2. Use Diagrams

Diagrams can benefit visual learners who want to know where the sound originates. 

Some students print it out and tape it to the wall where they study for easy reference during their classes.

3. Listen to Recordings

No doubt, listening to professional reciters on repeat influences our own recitation. This method is beneficial for auditory learners. 

4. Use a Mirror

Using a mirror to see where the sound is coming from and the placement of your tongue/mouth will significantly help kinesthetic learners. Those who need a more hands-on approach.

Even if you’re unsure what type of learner you are, try out a teacher! As you can see, a teacher applies all these methods and can correct any mistakes immediately before it becomes a habit. 

The worst situation would be conditioning yourself to pronounce letters wrong.

Don’t Give Up!

“…and recite the Quran clearly with tartil (in a distinct and measured tone).” (Quran 73:4)

Remember learning Quran tajweed is a journey and a form of worship.  

For non-native Arabic speakers, it can be especially challenging. Try not to get frustrated; it’ll take some time before you feel comfortable to pronounce letters correctly. 

When you are first learning, consider exaggerating sounds. This will help you condition yourself to say it from that particular part of the mouth or throat. As letters emerge more freely, you can fine-tune your emphasis and tone down letter sounds to sound more natural.

Learning the core of Quran tajweed is all about practice, so don’t give up! With a firm intention to give Allah’s Word its due, you’ll have the motivation to keep going. We’re only a click away if you get stuck and need our support.

Finally, don’t forget to reward yourself along the way! We’d love to celebrate with you, so feel free to share your progress and tag us on Instagram @IQRANetwork

May Allah bless your journey and accept all your efforts to Please Him and honor Him… Ameen