These are the ways of recitation that were related by the Prophet Muhammad, PBUH, to his Companions, who then passed them on to others. Various scholars recorded and transmitted different methods of recitation, leading to the documentation of the ten officially recognized Riwayat. Each Riwayat is attributed to a specific scholar or region and features a unique recitation style while consistently conveying the message of the Quran.
What is Riwayat Meaning?
In the context of Quranic recitation (Qirat of quran), riwayat refers to a specific transmission line or chain of narrators that passes down a specific Qiraat (recitation method). These are essentially the lineages of scholars who have meticulously learned and passed down these variations in recitation. These riwayat reflect the diversity of Arabic at the time of the Quran’s revelation, with each method passed down through reliable transmitters.
10 Riwayat Of Quran List
The ten Riwayat of the Holy Quran represent various methods of recitation, each with its nuances in pronunciation, dialect, and, at times, word choice. These variations are subtle and do not change the overall meaning of the Quranic text. Instead, they highlight the richness and adaptability of the Arabic language, allowing for diverse expressions based on regional dialects and language usage.
These Riwayat have been meticulously preserved over time, demonstrating the care required in transmitting the Quran throughout history. Here’s a list of some notable Riwayat, each linked to a specific reciter or scholar:
- Warsh ‘an Nafi’: Predominantly used in North Africa, this recitation features distinctive vowel and letter pronunciations.
- Qalun ‘an Nafi’: Another variant from Nafi’s school, primarily found in regions such as Libya and Tunisia.
- Ad-Duri ‘an Abi ‘Amr: Commonly practiced in Sudan and parts of West Africa, this recitation is characterized by its prolonged and distinct separation into various sections.
- Asim (Hafs ‘an ‘Asim): This is the most widely recognized chain of narration, celebrated globally and predominantly read in the Middle East and South Asia.
- Asim (Shu’bah ‘an ‘Asim): Another variant within Asim’s recitation, reported by Shu’bah, although less popular than the Hafs version, it is still taught and utilized in some areas.
- Ibn Kathir: In use primarily in Yemen, this style is noted for its unique phonetic approach to Quranic words.
- Abu ‘Amr: Mainly utilized in Sudan, characterized by its smooth flow and rhythmic quality.
- Hamzah: Known for its precise pronunciation, this style is mainly found in certain regions of Iraq.
- Al-Kisai: Commonly practiced in parts of Iraq and Iran, this recitation features subtle variations in word pronunciation.
- Khalaf: Practiced in some areas of Iraq, this variant is similar to Hamzah but has minor distinctions in recitation.
All these Riwayat have been authenticated and are recognized as valid styles of Quranic recitation. They originate from the same Quran, differing only slightly in the methods and chains of transmission used for pronunciation and recitation.
Note: Quran Grace has professional qiraat tutors to teach students quran recitations in various types in their “online qirat course”
How Many Riwayat Are in The Quran?
Each of the ten above-mentioned Riwayat are further divided into twenty individual narrations, referred to as Qira’at. This subdivision occurs because each Riwayat features two primary transmitters who are responsible for its transmission.
These Qira’at collectively form the foundational types of Quran recitation, each representing a legitimate method of reciting the Quran. They showcase variations that primarily revolve around pronunciation, dialectical differences, and, in some instances, the choice of words or the elongation of vowels. These distinctions enrich the recitation and interpretation of the sacred text.
Quranic scholars have focused on carefully preserving the ten Riwayat and their narrators for many generations. Their hard work has helped keep these readings safe and available, allowing different methods to remain clear and accessible.
All these Riwayat are recognized as authentic and valid. This authenticity is particularly notable because, although they originate from the same divine revelation, they mirror the remarkable linguistic diversity that characterized the Arabic language during the time of the Quran’s revelation. The diversity in the early Islamic period shows the rich culture of that time. It also helps readers better understand and appreciate the Quran.
What is Riwayat in Hadith?
In the context of Hadith studies, the term “Riwayat” refers to the narration and transmission of the sayings, actions, approvals, and characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH as conveyed by his companions and later generations.
Each Riwayat of a hadith exists within a specific chain of narrators known as the isnad. This chain is carefully traced through individuals who reported the Hadith until it was compiled into written collections. The following elements constitute Riwayat in Hadith:
- Isnad (Chain of Transmission): This is the sequence of narrators through whom the Hadith is transmitted, beginning with the Prophet Muhammad and concluding with the compiler. Each narrator in the chain is subjected to scrutiny regarding their reliability, accuracy, and the continuity of the chain itself.
- Matn: This term refers to the content or text of a Hadith, specifically the Prophet Muhammad’s actual words or actions as recounted in the narration.
- Level of Credibility (Sahih, Hasan, and Da’if): Hadiths are classified according to their authenticity. “Sahih” indicates an authentic Hadith, “Hasan” indicates a good one, and “Da’if” denotes a weak Hadith. The classification is based on the reliability of the narrators and the strength of the Isnad.
- Plurality of Riwayat: A single Hadith may be narrated through multiple Riwayats, each potentially offering slightly different wording. Scholars actively compare these Riwayats to determine which version is the most accurate or closest to the original in their research.
Conclusion
For those looking to master any of the 10 riwayat, Quran Grace offers an excellent opportunity. We provide a variety of online recitation classes for different Qirat, designed to cater to all levels of learners. To kickstart your Quran recitation classes journey, we invite you to join our free evaluation class, where you can work with one of our certified tutors. Enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of Quranic recitation with us today!
