For those beginning the rewarding journey of learning to read the Quran, one of the essential concepts you will encounter is Tanween. Although it may seem like a few minor symbols, grasping the significance of Tanween is crucial for achieving accurate pronunciation, comprehension, and a smooth reading of this sacred text.  

So, what is Tanween, and what makes it so important in the context of the Quran? Let’s explore this concept further with insights from a professional Egyptian Quran tutor at Quran Grace.

Tanween: The “N” Sound

Picture the Arabic language as a vast and ancient river, with its sounds flowing in a unique rhythm and melody. Within this river, Tanween acts like a special current, adding a subtle yet essential “n” sound to the end of certain words.

In simpler terms, tanween is a double vocalization mark that appears at the end of nouns and adjectives in Arabic. While it produces that “n” sound, it isn’t written as the letter “noon” (ن). Instead, it’s indicated by doubling one of three short vowel marks:

Tanween Fatha (ً): This consists of two fatha marks (ــَــ) positioned above the letter, creating an “an” sound. 

For example, consider كِتَابًا (kitāban), which means “a book” in the accusative case. You can see the double fatha over the “ba” sound.

Tanween Kasra (ٍ): This involves two kasra marks (ــِــ) placed below the letter, yielding an “in” sound. 

For instance, كِتَابٍ (kitābin) means “of a book” in the genitive case, with the double kasra appearing under the “bi” sound.

Tanween Damma (ٌ): This features two damma marks (ــُــ) above the letter, producing an “un” sound. 

For example, take كِتَابٌ (kitābun), meaning “a book” in the nominative case. Here, you can spot the double damma over the “bu” sound.

So, whenever you encounter these double vowel signs, your brain should instinctively add that “n” sound to the end of the syllable. It’s like a silent “n” that only becomes audible when needed.

The Four Main Rules of Tanween in Tajweed

To truly master Tanween, you need to understand how its pronunciation changes based on the letter that follows it. These are often referred to as the rules of Noon Sakinah and Tanween, as they apply to both. Quran Grace also offers an exclusive course of online Tajweed classes where you can learn the rules of Tanween in great detail.

1. Izhar (Clear Pronunciation)

If Tanween is followed by one of the six throat letters (ء, ه, ع, ح, غ, خ). The “n” sound of the Tanween is pronounced clearly and distinctly, without any nasalization.

Example in Quran: فِي جَنَّةٍ عَالِيَةٍ (fī jannatin ‘āliyah). The tanween on “jannatin” is followed by ‘ayn (ع), so it’s pronounced clearly.

2. Idgham (Merging/Assimilation)

If Tanween is followed by one of the six Idgham letters (ي, ر, م, ل, و, ن) – often remembered by the mnemonic “Yarmaloon” (يرملون). The “n” sound of the Tanween merges with the following letter. This merging can be with or without a nasal sound (Ghunnah).

  • With Ghunnah (Y, N, M, W): The “n” sound merges with a nasalization that lasts for two counts.

Example: مِّن نُّطْفَةٍ (min nuṭfah). The Tanween merges with the following Noon (ن) with a nasal sound.

  • Without Ghunnah (L, R): The “n” sound merges completely, without any nasalization.

Example: هُدًى لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ (hudan lil-muttaqīn). The Tanween on “hudan” merges into the Laam (ل) without a nasal sound.

3. Iqlab (Conversion/Changing)

If Tanween is followed by the letter Baa (ب). The “n” sound of the Tanween is converted into a light “m” sound, accompanied by a nasalization (Ghunnah) of two counts.

Example: سَمِيعٌ بَصِيرٌ (samī’um baṣīr). The Tanween on “samī’un” is followed by Baa (ب), so it becomes an “m” sound.

4. Ikhfa (Concealment/Hiding)

If Tanween is followed by any of the remaining 15 Arabic letters (those not in Izhar, Idgham, or Iqlab). The “n” sound of the Tanween is partially hidden or concealed, pronounced with a soft nasal sound (Ghunnah) that blends into the articulation point of the following letter. The tongue doesn’t fully touch the roof of the mouth as it would for a clear “n” sound.

Example: رِيحًا صَرْصَرًا (rīḥan ṣarṣarā). The Tanween on “rīḥan” is followed by Saad (ص), so the “n” sound is subtly concealed with a ghunnah.

Putting it into Practice

For common readers, the best way to grasp Tanween is through consistent listening and practice.

  • Listen to Qualified Reciters: Pay close attention to how experienced Quran reciters (Qaris) pronounce words with Tanween. Their recitation embodies the correct application of these rules.
  • Use a Tajweed Mushaf: Many modern Qurans have color-coded Tajweed rules. These can be incredibly helpful in visually identifying Tanween and the rules that apply to it.
  • Practice with a qualified and certified tutor: If possible, seek guidance from a qualified Tajweed teacher like the one at Quran Grace. They can provide personalized feedback and correct your pronunciation.

Why is Tanween Important in the Quran?

Tanween plays a vital role in both grammar and the beautiful art of Quranic recitation, known as Tajweed.

  1. Grammatical Significance: In Arabic, Tanween often indicates that a noun or adjective is indefinite. For instance, “kitābun” (كِتَابٌ) means “a book” (indefinite), whereas “al-kitābu” (الكتاب) with the definite article “al” means “the book” (definite). It also helps identify the grammatical case of a word (nominative, accusative, or genitive), which is crucial for understanding the meaning of a sentence.
  2. Tajweed (Proper Recitation): This is where Tanween truly shines in the context of the Quran. The rules governing Tanween’s pronunciation, often intertwined with the rules of Noon Sakinah (a stationary “noon” letter), are fundamental to Tajweed. Proper application of these rules ensures:
  • Accurate Pronunciation: The Quran was revealed with specific sounds and articulations. Mispronouncing Tanween can alter the meaning of verses, which is a serious matter in Quranic recitation.
  • Melody and Rhythm: Tajweed adds beauty and a specific rhythm to the recitation of the Quran. Tanween rules contribute to this melodic flow, making the recitation harmonious and captivating.
  • Preservation of the Text: By adhering to Tajweed rules, including those of Tanween, the integrity and authenticity of the Quranic text, as it was revealed, are preserved across generations.

Conclusion 

Tanween is a giant step towards appreciating the linguistic marvel of the Quran and Tajweed. If you want to begin your Tajweed journey to enhance your understanding of Tanween, join the free evaluation and consultation at Quran Grace by joining the advanced tajweed course. We offer flexible timings with customized study plans. Grab your slot today and get started right away!