Tajweed is the skill of correctly pronouncing the Quranic text. So it is considered a vital aspect of reading the Quran. But, is it obligatory? Islamically, there are some insights about this matter. Let’s discuss this issue in some detail to have a better grasp of it.
In this article, we will talk briefly about what Tajweed means and whether it is obligatory when reading the Quran or in Salah. We will also investigate if the Quran has to be memorized with Tajweed. We will see also what the Hanifi school says about Tajweed.
In addition, we will discuss if a student can learn Tajweed by himself/herself, what the prophet said about Tajweed, and if Tajweed is fard ayn. Below, you will also find out how to read the Quran with Tajweed, the benefits of reading the Quran with Tajweed, and if Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions read the Quran with Tajweed.
Table of Contents
What Is Tajweed?
Tajweed is the art of reciting the Quran with proper pronunciation, using correct “places of articulation” (مخارج الحروف) referring to the specific places in the vocal tract where the different Arabic letters are produced.
Also, it is a set of guidelines that ensure the Quran is recited accurately, preserving its meaning and beauty. It has some rules that should be followed such as articulation [correct pronunciation of letters from their exact point of articulation], intonation [using the right pitch and tone], pauses and stops, extension and shortening, etc.
Is Tajweed Obligatory / Fard?
The short answer is no; Tajweed is not strictly obligatory in Islam. While it is considered an excellent practice to recite the Quran with proper Tajweed, it is not a mandatory requirement for the validity of reciting the Quran. Let’s tackle this issue from different Islamic perspectives.
Is Tajweed Fard Ayn?
First of all, we need to define the Islamic term “Fard Ain”. It refers to a personal duty or an individual obligation. This means that every individual Muslim is personally obligated to perform it. If they fail to fulfill this individual obligation, this is considered a sin. Examples of Fard ayn [فرض عين] include prayer and fasting Ramadan.
The short answer is no. While improving one’s Tajweed can enhance the spiritual experience of reading the Quran, learning Tajweed is not Fard Ayn. In fact, it is Fard Kifaya. This means that if a sufficient number of Muslims learn Tajweed in a given community, the other Muslims in that community, who do not learn it are free from guilt. But if ALL Muslims in the community do not learn Tajweed, ALL of them are guilty.
Did The Prophet Read The Quran With Tajweed?
Yes, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recited the Quran with the most beautiful and accurate pronunciation, which is what we now call Tajweed. It is clear that he emphasized the importance of correct recitation and set a high standard for future generations.
Later on, early Muslim scholars, who were close to the Prophet’s time, emphasized the importance of correct recitation of the Quran and developed the rules of Tajweed based on their understanding and observations.
Did The Companions Read The Quran With Tajweed?
Yes, it is widely believed that Prophet Muhammad’s companions (may Allah be pleased with them all) recited the Quran with Tajweed. They were regarded as the greatest authorities on correct Quranic recitation because they received it firsthand from the Prophet (peace be upon him).
The foundation of the Tajweed laws we adhere to today was laid by their practice and knowledge of Tajweed, which they transmitted to Muslims in later generations.
Do I Have To Learn Tajweed?
No, learning Tajweed is not strictly obligatory (Fard) in Islam. However, striving to improve one’s Tajweed can enhance the spiritual experience of reading the Quran. There is also a direct command from Allah to recite the Quran properly.
In this context, Allah says:
“Recite the Quran ˹properly˺ in a measured way”
“وَرَتِّلِ ٱلْقُرْءَانَ تَرْتِيلًا”
In this Part of the verse, Allah commands Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the believers who follow his example to recite the Quran “properly“.
However, the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) shows very clearly that Muslims are not equal in their level of perfection in reciting the Quran and thus in their rewards for reading it.
This is evident when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) 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.”
“الذي يقرأ القرآن وهو ماهر به مع السفرة الكرام البررة، والذي يقرأ القرآن ويتتعتع فيه وهو عليه شاق له أجران”.
In this Hadith, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) makes it clear that the more a Muslim is better at reading the Quran, the bigger the reward they receive for this. However, this also implies that there are and will still be many Muslims who read the Quran with difficulty and this is ok. Their core faith is not compromised by this.
But there is a more elaborated distinction here that all Muslims must comprehend. There are basic Tajweed rules and advanced Tajweed rules. Each of these has a different rule in Islam. Let’s see!
First – The Ruling of Learning Basic Tajweed Rules:
Basic Tajweed guidelines are crucial to comprehend and follow to prevent interpreting Quranic verses differently. This understanding helps to avoid serious recitation errors.
The following are some “basic rules” for Tajweed that are vital to prevent changing the meaning of the Quranic text:
1- Proper Pronunciation Of Words Or Vowel Pointing Of Words/Verbs:
This rule means that every word and verb in the Quran must be pronounced properly. Otherwise, the meaning of the whole verse may be changed. This is something that is known in standard Arabic as اللحن.
Let’s look at the following part of a Quranic verse as an example:
“Of all of Allah’s servants, only the knowledgeable ˹of His might˺ are ˹truly˺ in awe of Him.”
“إِنَّمَا يَخْشَى ٱللَّهَ مِنْ عِبَادِهِ ٱلْعُلَمَـٰٓؤُا۟ ۗ”
Every good Arabic speaker knows that the word “الله” in this verse MUST be pronounced as “Allaha” rather than “Allaho”. If it is uttered as “Allaho”, the meaning of the verse will be the complete opposite: it will be that Allah fears His knowledgeable servants”, while the intended meaning is only established when the word “الله” is pronounced as “Allaha”. In this case, the true meaning is there: “Allah is feared by His servants who are knowledgeable”.
2- Correct Articulation:
Every Muslim reciting the Quran must ensure each letter is pronounced accurately from its point of articulation. So they must distinguish between similar letters like ‘qaaf’ (ق) and ‘kaaf’ (كـ). This is very specific to the Arabic language and to Quranic Arabic in particular.
3- Using Correct Rules Of Stops And Pauses:
Anyone reciting the Quran has to know where to pause or stop during recitation. Let’s take the following part of the verse as an example here:
“O believers! Do not approach prayer while intoxicated1 until you are aware of what you say…”
“يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ لَا تَقْرَبُوا۟ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَأَنتُمْ سُكَـٰرَىٰ حَتَّىٰ تَعْلَمُوا۟ مَا تَقُولُونَ…”
While reciting this verse, it is incorrect to read “O believers! Do not approach prayer” and pause! In this case, it will look as if Allah is commanding believers not to pray! This is not the intended meaning here.
Rather you should read
“O believers! Do not approach prayer while intoxicated1 until you are aware of what you say”
as a whole ONE unit so that the right meaning is maintained.
4- Using The Correct Madd:
Madd means extending the sound of certain letters based on specific rules.
For example, let’s consider the first 3 verses in Chapter Al-Kaferun (109):
“Say, O Prophet, “O you disbelievers! I do not worship what you worship, nor do you worship what I worship.”
“قُلْ يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلْكَـٰفِرُونَ ١ لَآ أَعْبُدُ مَا تَعْبُدُونَ ٢ وَلَآ أَنتُمْ عَـٰبِدُونَ مَآ أَعْبُدُ ٣”
The first “مَا” should be short while the second “مَا” should be extended. This is very important to implement; as it has some vital significance here. As suggested by some scholars, it gives here the meaning that those idols and persons that the disbelievers associate with Allah are nothing compared to Allah, the Almighty. This meaning is established by this simple Madd.
These are some basic rules of Tajweed. It is essential to comprehend and follow these principles to recite the Quran accurately.
Second – The Ruling of Learning Advanced Tajweed Rules:
Gaining proficiency in Tajweed’s advanced rules adds depth and beauty to the recitation of the Quran. However, it is widely seen as praiseworthy but optional. These may include rules like Idgham, Eqlab, Qalqala, etc.
Riwaq Al Quran is considered one of the best online platforms to offer Tajweed courses. There, you can join one of the top Online Quran Classes to learn about how to recite the Quran. You can even have a free trial of our prominent online Ijazah in Quran Recitation and Tajweed course. There are also Tajweed courses for kids. You should consider signing your kid up in one of them!
Is Tajweed Obligatory In Salah?
No, Tajweed is not obligatory in Salah and thus not following Tajweed rules does not invalidate Salah. Although learning and following those rules are highly advised for good Quran recitation in Salah, it is not necessary for the validity of Salah. The main emphasis is on keeping the meaning of the text and offering a good prayer.
The fact that new Muslims, who might not speak Arabic, are required to pray and are only required to recite Al-Fatihah Chapter in each Rakaa—there is no need for them to recite anything from the Quran after it if they are still learning the text—is unmistakable proof that Tajweed does not invalidate Salah. Their prayers are therefore nonetheless valid even though they do not recite passages from the Quran.
In this context, Abu Hurairah said:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commanded me to announce that prayer is not valid but with the recitation of Fatihat al-kitab [Al-Fatihah Chapter] at least.
“عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ أَمَرَنِي رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم أَنْ أُنَادِيَ أَنَّهُ لاَ صَلاَةَ إِلاَّ بِقِرَاءَةِ فَاتِحَةِ الْكِتَابِ فَمَا زَادَ”.
In this narration, it is evident that any Muslim must recite Al-Fatihah Chapter at least in each Rakaa so that their prayer is valid. If they recite more text from the Quran after it, this is fine. But not doing that does not invalidate the prayer.
Read more about Is Tajweed Obligatory In Salah? – Does Tajweed Invalidate Salah?
Can You Recite the Quran Without Tajweed?
Yes, we can always recite the Quran without advanced Tajweed rules, but we should keep the basic ones. Although learning and applying Tajweed is highly recommended for precise recitation, it is NOT a necessary condition for the validity of recitation. The most important thing is to comprehend and maintain the meaning of the Quranic text.
However, it is important to strive for correct pronunciation to avoid altering the meaning of any Quranic verse and to feel more connected to the Quran, the direct word of Allah. Thus, understanding the basics of Tajweed can help avert serious mistakes while reciting the Quran.
Do I Have To Memorize The Quran With Tajweed?
Yes, if you choose to memorize the Quran, learning Tajweed is essential to ensure that you memorize it correctly and accurately. Memorizing the Quran is a noble mission and requires much persistence on your part to get the unlimited benefits of being among “Allah’s own people”.
In this context, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Allah has His own people among mankind.” They said: “O Messenger of Allah, who are they?” He said: “The people of the Quran, the people of Allah, and those who are closest to Him.”
“إِنَّ لِلَّهِ أَهْلِينَ مِنَ النَّاسِ”، قَالُوا “يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ مَنْ هُمْ؟” قَالَ: “هُمْ أَهْلُ الْقُرْآنِ، أَهْلُ اللَّهِ وَخَاصَّتُهُ”.
This hadith makes it clear that those who study and memorize the Quran properly (with Tajweed of course) are the people of Allah, i.e. the closest people to Him.
Is Tajweed Obligatory In Hanafi?
The Hanafi School of Islamic Law does not consider Tajweed to be strictly obligatory (fard). However, Hanafi scholars do emphasize the importance of avoiding major errors in recitation that could alter the meaning of the Quranic verses. Therefore, understanding and applying basic Tajweed rules are considered essential.
In this regard, Mulla Ali al-Qari [a prominent Hanfi scholar] said:
“It is necessary to adhere to all their [Tajweed] rules as an obligation in whatever changes the structure and corrupts the meaning, and as a recommendation in whatever improves the word and makes the pronunciation more pleasing during recitation.”
“ينبغي أن تُراعى جميع قواعدهم وجوبًا فيما يتغيّر به المبنى ويفسد المعنى، واستحبابًا فيما يحسن به اللّفظ ويستحسن به النّطق حال الأداء”.
(Explanation of al-Jazariyyah) [a foundational text in the field of Tajweed]
Read more about Tajweed Institute: Choosing The Right Tajweed Institute
Why Is It Important To Learn Tajweed?
Tajweed is so important in every Muslim’s life. Without Tajweed, there’s a risk of mispronouncing words and altering the meaning of verses. In addition, learning Tajweed offers many other significant benefits, to name but a few:
1- Preserving the Quran’s Meaning:
Tajweed plays a vital role in preserving the Quran’s meaning by ensuring accurate pronunciation and intonation and avoiding ambiguity. A clear example of stops and pause (Waqf And Ibtida‘) rule (which is a Tajweed rule) in the Quran:
“O believers! Do not approach prayer while intoxicated1 until you are aware of what you say…”
“يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ لَا تَقْرَبُوا۟ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَأَنتُمْ سُكَـٰرَىٰ حَتَّىٰ تَعْلَمُوا۟ مَا تَقُولُونَ…”
When reciting this verse, it is incorrect to read “O believers! Do not approach prayer” and pause! In this case, it will look as a command not to pray! This is not the intended meaning here.
Rather you should read
“O believers! Do not approach prayer while intoxicated1 until you are aware of what you say”
as a whole ONE unit so that the right meaning is maintained.
2- Enhancing Recitation:
By following Tajweed rules, Muslims can enhance their Quranic recitation, making it more beautiful and meaningful. Also reciting the Quran with Tajweed can create a deeper emotional connection with the verses, allowing listeners to experience the full range of emotions conveyed in the text.
3- Deepening Connection With Allah:
By learning Tajweed, you are not only improving your Quran recitation but also strengthening your connection to Allah, the Author of this great guidance for humanity.
Can A Student Learn Tajweed By Himself/herself?
Learning Tajweed on your own is possible, though it might be harder and consume much time and effort. However, here are some ways to achieve this goal:
1- Online Tajweed Resources:
There are many online courses, tutorials, and videos available that can guide you through the basics and advanced levels of Tajweed.
Riwaq Al Quran is considered one of the best online platforms to offer Tajweed courses. You can enroll in one of our online Tajweed classes at Riwaq Al Quran to learn the basics to be closer to reciting the Quran as it was originally revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
2- Tajweed Books:
Several books on Tajweed are available, covering different levels of difficulty. These include “Tajweed Made Easy” by Abdullah Naasir, for beginners; “Al-Muqaddimah al-Jazariyyah” by Ibn al-Jazari (a classic text on Tajweed), for intermediate level; and “Tajweed al-Quran al-Karim” by Muhammad Ali Khan, for advanced level.
3- Quran Tajweed Reciters:
The Quran is an oral tradition. It was revealed from Allah to Angel Gabriel to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to all mankind through the oral form. So you can simply listen to Quran reciters who are known for their beautiful recitation and try to imitate how they recite the verses. Remember, practice makes perfect!
4- Local Communities With Tajweed Halaqat:
Consider finding one to one Quran teachers or recitation groups that can provide good guidance and support. These can be as simple as Quran circles in nearby mosques.
However, the most effective way to learn Tajweed is to join Tajweed classes. Consider benefiting from the services of well-known quality learning academies like Riwaq Al Quran.
This needs to be done with the help of a well-versed Tajweed mentor who can guide you throughout this noble journey. At Riwaq Al Quran, we have many experienced Quran instructors who can help you a lot. You can check them here.
What Did The Prophet (ﷺ) Say About Tajweed?
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made a clear distinction between those who recite the Quran with Tajweed and those who read it with difficulty as well as the rewards for both of them.
This is clear in the following hadith by the Prophet (peace be upon him):
“The one who is proficient in the recitation of the Quran will be with the honorable and obedient scribes (angels) and he who recites the Quran and finds it difficult to recite, doing his best to recite it in the best way possible, will have two rewards.”
.”الذي يقرأ القرآن وهو ماهر به مع السفرة الكرام البررة، والذي يقرأ القرآن ويتتعتع فيه وهو عليه شاق له أجران”
This Hadith clarifies that there are 2 types of people reciting the Quran, one of them is a good reciter who follows Tajweed rules. This person recites the Quranic words and verses accurately and follows the rules of Tajweed. The reward for this type of recitation is that he/she will be with the honorable and obedient scribes (angels).
The other type is those who read the Quran with difficulty (i.e. do not learn or follow Tajweed rules). However, they will have double rewards for their effort.
How To Read The Quran With Tajweed?
Learning Tajweed can be a rewarding journey. Here are some steps to get you started:
1- Find A Quran Teacher Or Online Resources:
Consider taking lessons from a qualified Quran teacher or academy. Riwaq Al Quran is a very good place to start with.
2- Learn The Basics First:
Begin by learning the fundamental rules of Tajweed, such as the correct pronunciation of letters, extensions, pauses, etc. These are essential rules for good recitation of the Quran. Then, you can learn more advanced rules.
3- Practice Regularly:
Consistent practice is key to mastering Tajweed. Set aside time each day to recite the Quran with whatever Tajweed rules you have learned.
4- Listen To Reciters:
Listen to Quran reciters who are known for accurate Tajweed and elegant recitation. Try to imitate how they recite each verse. Recommended reciters to listen to are Shaikh Al Hossary and Shaikh Al Minshawy.
5- Join A Tajweed Class Or Group:
If possible, join a Tajweed class or group to learn and receive feedback. Remember that learning the correct way to recite the Quran requires that you read it to a qualified Quran tutor who in turn corrects your mistakes and gives you feedback. That’s how Tajweed is practically learned.
Benefits Of Reading The Quran With Tajweed
Reading the Quran with Tajweed offers numerous benefits, both spiritual and practical. Let’s see some of these benefits:
1- Pleasing Allah:
Accurate recitation of the Quran is pleasing to Allah, as it is a fulfillment of His direct command in the Quran:
“Recite the Quran ˹properly˺ in a measured way”
“وَرَتِّلِ ٱلْقُرْءَانَ تَرْتِيلًا”
In this Part of the verse, Allah commands Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the believers who follow his example to recite the Quran “properly“.
2- Improving Pronunciation:
Even those who are not interested in reading the Quran but are more keen on improving their pronunciation of Arabic letters, are encouraged to learn Tajweed so that their tongue is clear from all foreign accents. Those can include performers, media people, news reporters. For example, similar letters like ‘qaaf’ (ق) and ‘kaaf’ (كـ) must be clearly differentiated. This is attainable through learning Tajweed.
3- Preserving Islamic Heritage:
Tajweed is an essential component of Islamic tradition, and learning it contributes to its preservation.
There is no other nation or civilization that is more keen on the correct pronunciation of its guiding literature than the Muslim Ummah. By learning and practicing Tajweed, you are not only improving your Quran recitation but also strengthening your connection with Islam and Islamic culture.
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Riwaq Al Quran is a comprehensive online platform that offers personalized Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies Online classes for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
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The advanced online classes allow for seamless communication and interaction between students and teachers. Join Riwaq Al Quran for a deeper connection with the Quran.
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- Quran Memorization Online Course: Memorize the Quran effectively with our specialized online memorization course.
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Conclusion
By following Tajweed rules, Muslims aim to recite the Quran in the way it was originally revealed from Allah Almighty to Angel Gabriel to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to all mankind through the oral form.
Having established the numerous benefits of Tajweed, you need to know that consistent practice is key to mastering it. Learning and following Tajweed rules is a wise investment for Muslims of all ages and skill levels. It is a means to honor the Quran and become closer to its divine message.
