Quranic Arabic Vs. The Other Forms Of Arabic (Normal Arabic And Modern Arabic)

If you’ve ever tried to learn Arabic, you may have come across phrases like Quranic Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), or even Egyptian dialect. I recall a close friend of mine asking me, “Is Quranic Arabic different from standard Arabic?” and, to be honest, it is one of the most frequently asked questions by new learners. So today, we’re going to walk you over what differentiates Quranic Arabic, how it connects to other kinds of Arabic, and some often-asked issues that beginners have.

What Is Quranic Arabic?

The Arabic language as it appears in the Quran, the holy book of Islam, is known as Quranic Arabic. It is basically Classical Arabic, which was the language used when the Quran was revealed in the seventh century. Consider it the formal, formal model of Arabic.

One of the main reasons Quranic Arabic is significant is because it has been maintained in its original state. Muslims across the world learn passages from the Quran in exact terms that were revealed more than 1,400 years ago and recite it during prayers. 

If you wish to learn Quranic Arabic in-depth, check out the guide below: 

A Full Guide For Learning Quranic Arabic For Beginners

What is the Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)?

Modern Standard Arabic is the official version of Arabic that is commonly used in writing, legal documents, journalism, literature, and the media. It originated from Classical Arabic, becoming the most common tongue for official communication throughout the Arab world.

MSA is taught in schools and universities, and it is widely understood in Arabic-speaking nations, but it is rarely used in ordinary conversation, as the Arabic speakers prefer to use their native dialects (that already originated from Classical Arabic) of their own countries.

Quranic Arabic vs. Modern Standard Arabic  (MSA)

one of the most frequently asked questions by new learners is “What’s the difference between Quranic Arabic and Modern Standard Arabic?”

Briefly, the primary distinction between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Quranic (Classical) Arabic is in their usage and structure. Quranic Arabic is commonly found in religious books and classical literature, but MSA is the language utilized in official communication, media, and everyday speech. Despite their variations, both have the same foundation, allowing fluent Arabic speakers to effortlessly switch between the two with small changes.

On the other hand, to break down the similarities and differences between the Quranic Arabic and MSA:

1. Difference Between Quranic And Modern Arabic in Definition:

• Quranic Arabic: The Arabic dialect used in the Qur’an is referred to as Quranic Arabic, Classical Arabic, or Fus’ha. It is considered the sacred language of Islamic religion and appears in early Arabic poetry and literature.

• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA): is the modern version of Classical Arabic and is used around the Arab countries today in official contexts, such as the media, academics, literature, and official speeches.

 2. Different Usages Of Quranic And Modern Arabic:

• Quranic Arabic: is mostly employed in religious settings, classical literature, and research works on Islamic regulations. Furthermore, Quranic Arabic is regarded as a refined version of Classical Arabic, with more expressive and metaphorical elements.

• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA): is used in programs, books, political discussions, and formal writing.

Furthermore, MSA is closer to Quranic Arabic than colloquial dialects, but with more current words and simplified forms.

3. Grammar and Syntax Differences:

• Quranic Arabic: can be more complicated, reflecting the text’s expressive and spiritual tone. Furthermore, Quranic Arabic adheres to stricter grammatical standards, such as the use of subjunctive and jussive verb forms.

• Modern Standard Arabic: is a simplified form of classical grammar that is easier to find to present-day speakers and learners.

In addition, Sentence structures are clearer than the complex forms seen in Quranic Arabic.

Also, some sophisticated verb forms and grammatical circumstances, such as the intricacies of the subjunctive and jussive moods, are rarely employed or made simpler.

4. Vocabulary Difference Between Quranic And Modern Arabic:

• Quranic Arabic: Quranic Arabic terms often have specific and time-honored connotations. It also frequently employs metaphorical and allegorical language that must be interpreted on the basis of the context.

• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA): While much of the vocabulary is identical to Classical Arabic, MSA introduces new terminology, particularly for technology, science, and modern living.

Furthermore, MSA frequently borrows from other languages and creates slang terms in order to keep up with new technological advances.

5. Pronunciation Differeces:

• Quranic Arabic:
  • To accurately express the meaning of the Qur’an, strict Tajweed (pronunciation and reciting guidelines) must be followed.
  • Certain vowel and consonant sounds may be pronounced differently than they are nowadays.

• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA):
  • MSA pronunciation is formal, although it does not require the same level of precision as Tajweed.
  • Certain characters may be pronounced variously in different regions of the Arab world. For example, the letter “ج” is spelled as “g” in Egypt but “j” elsewhere.

6. Relation to Dialects:

• Quranic Arabic: Nowadays, Quranic Arabic is rarely spoken in conversation. However, some Quranic phrases may emerge in religious discourse or Arabic poetry.

• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA): is not considered a “native” language. In everyday life, most Arabs use their local dialect (such as Egyptian Arabic, Levantine Arabic, and so on) before switching to MSA for formal situations.

7. Learning Difficulty:

• Quranic Arabic: Because of its ancient structure and terminology, it might be more difficult for students, particularly those unfamiliar with its religious background.
• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA): Is still regarded a difficult language due to its grammatical complexity, but it is frequently more accessible to learners because of its importance in media and academics.

In short, Quranic Arabic preserves the traditional sacred language, whereas MSA is more adaptable and meets current needs.

What are the Arabic Dialects?

Arabic dialects are the common, informal variations of Arabic spoken in different places. Unlike formal Arabic, which is utilized in news and official papers, these dialects offer a personal touch to discussions, TV shows, and community activities. Some of the most popular dialects include Egyptian Arabic, Levantine Arabic, Gulf Arabic, and Maghrebi Arabic. 

Each has a distinct syntax, vocabulary, and pronunciation that has been influenced by the culture and history of its location. Arabic dialects, unlike Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), are neither uniform or standardized, hence they can sound significantly different, even within the same nation.

1. Egyptian Arabic

Egyptian Arabic is the most commonly understood dialect in the Arab world, owing to Egypt’s strong position in Arabic media, particularly television and cinema. It is spoken by approximately 100 million people in Egypt and is often regarded as the Arab world’s “lingua franca” for casual conversation.

• Key Pronunciation: The letter “ج” is pronounced as a soft “g,” hence the word “جمل” (camel) is spoken as “Gamal” in Egyptian Arabic, rather than “Jamal.”
• Influences: Egyptian Arabic includes borrowed terms from Coptic, Turkish, French, and English, reflecting Egypt’s long history of cultural exchange.

2. Levantine Arabic

Levantine Arabic is spoken in nations such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. This dialect is commonly referred to as Shami Arabic. It has also been affected by French (particularly in Lebanon) and Turkish because of Ottoman dominance in the region.

• Key Pronunciation: In some locations, the letter “ق” (qāf) is pronounced as a glottal stop (similar to the word “uh-oh”). For instance, “قلب” (heart) is pronounced “2alb.”

3. Gulf Arabic

Gulf Arabic is widely spoken in the Arabian Peninsula, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. This dialect varies throughout the Gulf, yet speakers from different Gulf countries generally understand one another.

• Key Pronunciation: Gulf Arabic typically retains the traditional pronunciation of “ق” (qāf), unlike other dialects that shift. For instance, “قلب” (heart) sounds like “qalb.”

4. Maghrebi Arabic

Maghrebi Arabic is the primary language in North African countries including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. It is also known as Darija, and it differs significantly from Middle Eastern dialects, making it difficult for people of other dialects to understand without previous exposure.

• Key Pronunciation: Many sounds in Darija have accents with strong influences from the Berber, French, and Spanish languages. For instance, “لا” (no) becomes “la” in MSA but may sound like “leh” in Moroccan Arabic.

5. Sudanese Arabic

Sudanese Arabic is spoken across Sudan and parts of South Sudan. Because of its location, it bears similarities with Egyptian Arabic, although it also has distinct characteristics.

• Key Pronunciation: Sudanese Arabic, unlike Egyptian Arabic, preserves more Classical Arabic sounds. For example, “ج” is pronounced “j” rather than the Egyptian “g.”

Quranic Arabic vs. Dialects

The Differences Between Quranic Arabic and Dialects:

• Pronunciation: Dialects frequently simplify the sounds. Egyptians pronounce the letter “ج” as a soft “g,” while Quranic Arabic pronounces it as “j.”

• Grammar: Dialects utilize weaker grammatical restrictions than Quranic Arabic. This makes them more practical for daily use while remaining less formal.

• Vocabulary: Vocabulary varies by dialect. For example, “car” in Egyptian Arabic is “ʿarabiya,” whereas in Moroccan Arabic, it’s “ṭūmūbīl,” which comes from French.

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Conclusion

Finally, It is essential that you understand the distinctions between Quranic Arabic and other varieties of Arabic. You’ll quickly become more adept at reading the Quran’s passages with perseverance and practice.