The Holy Quran is the literal speech of Allah, a divine message revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with a specific sound, rhythm, and structure. Because every syllable is sacred, the Ummah has meticulously preserved the Quran through two primary sciences: Tajweed and Qirat.

In the simplest terms, Tajweed provides the technical foundation; it is the “how” of pronunciation, ensuring every letter is articulated correctly. Qirat represents the authorized variety; it is the “what” of recitation, encompassing the different authentic dialects and styles taught by the Prophet (PBUH).

Differences Between Tajweed and Qirat

To understand the difference between Tajweed and Qirat, we must look at their definitions, origins, and applications.

1. What is Tajweed?

The word Tajweed linguistically means “proficiency” or “doing something well.” In the context of the Quran, Tajweed refers to the rules governing the pronunciation of letters. Each Arabic letter has a Makhraj (exit point) and Sifaat (characteristics).

Tajweed teaches you:

  • Where the sound of a letter should come from (throat, tongue, lips).
  • When to make a sound heavy or light.
  • How long to stretch a vowel (Madd)
  • How to handle the “Noon” and “Meem” sounds (Ghunnah).

The goal of Tajweed is to prevent the reciter from making mistakes that could change the meaning of the words. It is an individual obligation (Fard al-Ayn) for every Muslim to know enough Tajweed to pray correctly.

Note: If you want to perfect your pronunciation and recite the Quran with confidence, you can join the Online Tajweed Classes by Quran Grace today. Our expert tutors provide personalized feedback to help you excel in your journey.

2. What is Qirat?

The word Qirat is the plural of “Qira’ah,” which means “recitation.” In Islamic science, Qirat refers to the various methods of reciting the Quran. These are not different versions of the Quran, but rather different ways of pronouncing or reading certain words based on the various Arabic dialects present at the time of revelation.

The Prophet (PBUH) taught the Quran in seven “Ahruf” (styles) to make it easy for different tribes to understand. From these styles, ten authentic schools of Qirat (The Ten Qira’at) were preserved by famous scholars like Imam Asim, Imam Nafi, and Imam Hamzah.

3 Key Differences Between Tajweed and Qirat

While there are some similarities, it is important to recognize the differences between the two. Here are the detailed distinctions:

A. Scope and Focus

Tajweed is the study of the proper pronunciation and articulation of Arabic letters, focusing on the mechanics of sound production. This discipline emphasizes the physical aspects involved in reading the Quran, ensuring that each letter is pronounced with its correct characteristics. Regardless of whether one is practicing the Qirat Hafs or Qirat Warsh, the foundational rules of Tajweed, such as giving each letter its due emphasis, serve as essential principles.

On the other hand, Qirat pertains to the variations in word formation and vowel markings. Different Qirat styles can affect the way words are vowelized (Harakaat) or may introduce slight variations in wording that convey similar meanings. A notable example can be found in Surah Al-Fatiha, where one Qirat uses “Maaliki yawmi-deen,” translating to “Master of the Day of Judgment,” while another reads “Maliki yawmi-deen,” meaning “King of the Day of Judgment.” Both readings are considered correct and were revealed by Allah, showcasing the diversity within the recitation of the Quran.

B. The Relationship (Foundation vs. Style)

Tajweed can be likened to the grammar and phonetics of a language, essential for speaking it correctly. It establishes the proper pronunciation and articulation required for accurate communication. 

On the other hand, Qirat refers to the various accents or dialects within the language. Similar to how English has distinct variations in sound between cities like London and New York, Qirat introduces diversity in recitation. While Tajweed provides a consistent framework of rules, Qirat showcases the wide variety in expression within that framework.

C. Universality

Tajweed is essential for the proper recitation of the Quran, regardless of the specific Qirat you choose to study. It is impossible to effectively practice a Qirat without applying the rules of Tajweed. However, it is important to note that one can learn Tajweed independently, without necessarily studying the various types of Qirat. In today’s world, the most commonly learned Qirat is that of Hafs an Asim, which is the standard version found in the majority of printed copies of the Quran.

D. The Rules of Application

Tajweed rules are generally consistent, with certain sounds, like ‘Qaf,’ consistently produced with a deep tone. However, different Qirat can influence some Tajweed rules. For instance, the concept of “Imalah,” which refers to leaning a vowel sound, and the duration of holding a “Madd” can vary significantly between the Qirat of Warsh and the Qirat of Hafs. Understanding these differences is essential for proper recitation.

Why are Both Important?

The proper application of Tajweed is essential for preserving the musicality and linguistic integrity of the Quran. Even a minor error in pronunciation can alter the meaning of words significantly; for example, “Qalb” (meaning heart) can mistakenly become “Kalb” (meaning dog) if pronounced incorrectly. 

Additionally, the various Qira’at (readings) of the Quran contribute to its rich linguistic miracles. These different recitations enhance our understanding and interpretation (Tafseer) of the text, as the variations in wording can reveal additional layers of meaning within the same verse.

Conclusion

In summary, Tajweed and Qirat are two sides of the same coin. Tajweed is the science of correct pronunciation, ensuring that every letter is given its right. Qirat is the science of authorized variations, preserving the various ways the Prophet (PBUH) recited the verses to accommodate the Ummah.

At Quran Grace, we believe that every Muslim deserves the chance to recite the Quran as it was revealed, with beauty, clarity, and precision. Whether you are starting with basic Tajweed or looking to explore the depths of Qirat through our quran qirat course, the key is to learn from qualified quran teachers who can guide you through the oral tradition that has been passed down for over 1,400 years.