introduction and importance of makaraj in holy quran

ِ‫ن‬ٰ‫م‬‫َّح‬‫ر‬‫ال‬ ِ‫ہ‬‫الل‬ ِ‫م‬‫ِس‬‫ب‬
‫ِيم‬‫ح‬َّ‫ر‬‫ال‬
“In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful”

Assignment THQ
Submitted By: Submitted To:
Group D Ms. Ayesha
Topic
Introduction & Importance of
Makharaj

Introduction to
Makharij
Makharij are where the letters are
pronounced from. For us to be able to
pronounce the Arabic letters correctly to help
us with our tajweed, it is important to know
what the 5 main makarij of the letters.

5 Main Makharij
The empty space (‫;)الجوف‬
The empty space is the open area in your mouth. If a doctor asks you to
open your mouth and say “aaaa” have you ever wondered where the
sound comes from? The sound comes from the empty space in your
mouth. There are three letters which exit from empty space which are alif
madd, wow madd and ya madd. Now try saying “aaaa”, “eeeee” and
“oooo” and take a moment to notice where sound comes from.

5 Main Makharij
The throat (‫)الحلق‬
There are six letters which exit from the throat which are ‫خ‬ ‫غ‬
‫ه‬ ‫ء‬ ‫ح‬ ‫ع‬. In English we don’t use our throat very much for any
of the letters, so many of us struggle to pronounce the letters
from the throat. It took me a very long time to pronounce ‫ع‬
correctly.

5 Main Makharij
The tongue (‫)السان‬
Most of the Arabic letters exit from the tongue. There are
eighteen letters which exit from the tongue which are ‫ج‬ ‫ش‬ ‫ك‬ ‫ق‬
‫ث‬ ‫ذ‬ ‫ظ‬ ‫س‬ ‫ز‬ ‫ص‬ ‫ت‬ ‫د‬ ‫ط‬ ‫ر‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ض‬ ‫ي‬. These letter are further divided
into specific makharij which will help you understand which
part of the tongue help us pronounce each letter.

5 Main Makharij
The nose (‫)الخيشوم‬
I never knew that the nose is an integral part for two of the
letters ‫م‬ and ‫ن‬. When the sound of these two letters go in the
nose we call it ghunna. Did you notice ‫م‬ is pronounced from
the lips but the sound also goes into the nose.

5 Main Makharij
The Lips ‫))الشفتان‬
The four letters which are pronounced from
the lips are ‫و‬ ‫م‬ ‫ب‬ ‫ف‬.

What Is Makhraj In Tajweed
To learn what is Makhraj in Tajweed firstly, we
should know the definition:

Linguistic Definition:
The term “Makharij” is the plural of “Makhraj,”
referring to the place of articulation or the exact point
from which a letter is emitted.

Terminological Definition:
Makharij signifies the specific location within the vocal tract that distinguishes one letter
(harf) from another..

Determining the Makhraj of a Harf:
For Letters with a Makhraj Mohaqaq:
Pronounce the letter in a state of Sukun (when the consonant has no vowel) or in a
mushadad form (when the letter is doubled in length).

Determining the Makhraj of a Harf:
For Letters with a Makhraj Moqadar:
Pronounce the letter when it follows a consonant with a matching diacritical mark, such as
a fat-hah before the letter madd (like alif).

Accurate Pronunciation:
Makharij ensures that each Arabic letter is
pronounced correctly from its specific
articulation point, which is essential for
preserving the meaning of words.

Prevention of Mistakes:
Understanding Makharij helps reciters avoid
common pronunciation errors (like merging or
misplacing sounds) that could alter the
intended meaning of verses.

Clarity and Fluency:
Proper articulation allows for clearer and
more fluid recitation, enhancing the
listener's experience and understanding
of the text.

Rhythm:
Correct pronunciation through Makharij
contributes to the aesthetic quality and
musicality of Quranic recitation, making it
more engaging and pleasing to the ear.

Spiritual Connection:
Mastery of Makharij and Tajweed fosters a
deeper spiritual connection to the Quran, as
reciters become more mindful of the sacred
text and its proper delivery.

Key Rules from Authentic
Sources
 Precision in Articulation:
The makhraj of each letter must be accurately pronounced. For example, ‫ص‬ (Saa) is
articulated from the upper teeth, while ‫س‬ (Seen) is pronounced with the tip of the tongue near
the teeth. Misplacing these letters can change meanings.
Avoiding Overlapping Sounds:
The distinction between similar-sounding letters is crucial. For instance, ‫ز‬ (Zay) and ‫ذ‬ (Dhāl)
are both pronounced near the teeth, but the latter has a voiced quality. This rule is emphasized
in multiple Tajweed texts, including "Al-Tajweed al-Muyassar."

Key Rules From Authentic Sources
Understanding the Characteristics (Sifat):
Each letter has specific qualities such as voiced/voiceless, heavy/light, and
sharp/soft. These qualities affect how letters are pronounced and are discussed in
depth in "Qawa'id al-Tajweed."
Practice and Repetition:
Regular practice with a focus on articulation from the correct makhraj is essential.
This is underscored in Sheikh Abdul Basit's teachings, which encourage reciters to
listen and imitate proficient reciters.

Key Rules From Authentic Sources
 Clear Enunciation:
Clarity in pronunciation is critical. For example, ْ
‫م‬‫ـ‬َ
‫ك‬ (Kam) should be
pronounced clearly without slurring. This point is stressed in "Tajweed al-Quran"
as essential for preserving the meaning of the text.
 Use of Nasal Sounds:
The nasal quality in letters like ‫م‬ (Meme) should be pronounced by allowing the
sound to resonate through the nose. The rules for nasal sounds are elaborated
upon in "Al-Tajweed al- Muyassar."

Common Mistakes In Makharij
1. Misplacing Articulation Points:
 Mistake: Pronouncing letters from the wrong makhraj. For instance, confusing ‫ق‬ (Qaaf)
with ‫ك‬ (Kaf), where Qaaf should be pronounced from the back of the throat, while Kaf is
articulated closer to the soft palate.
 Solution: Regularly practice the correct articulation of each letter by paying attention to
where the sound is produced. Use mirrors to observe tongue placement and listen to
proficient reciters.

2. Merging Similar Sounds:
• Mistake: Blending similar-sounding letters, such as ‫ذ‬ (Dhāl) and ‫ز‬ (Zay), or ‫س‬ (Seen) and ‫ش‬
(Sheen). This often occurs due to a lack of clarity in articulation.
• Solution: Focus on distinguishing the sound of each letter during practice. Try to isolate each letter
in words to hear the differences clearly.
3. Neglecting Nasal Sounds:
• Mistake: Failing to use nasal resonance for letters like ‫م‬ (Meme) and ‫ن‬ (Noon), which can lead to
flat pronunciation.
• Solution: Practice producing a nasal sound by gently allowing air to flow through your nose while
articulating these letters. Listening to how proficient reciters pronounce these letters can also help.

4. Incorrectly Pronouncing Heavy and Light Letters:
• Mistake: Mixing heavy (‫)ثقل‬ letters like ‫ص‬ (Saa), ‫ض‬ (Dhaa), ‫ط‬ (Taa), and ‫ق‬ (Qaaf) with light letters
like ‫س‬ (Seen), ‫ز‬ (Zay), and ‫ت‬ (Ta). For example, pronouncing ‫ص‬ (Saa) lightly instead of heavily.
• Solution: Recognize the heavy letters and practice them with emphasis. Focus on the depth of sound
and engage the tongue and throat appropriately.
5. Lack of Clear Enunciation:
• Mistake: Slurring letters together, such as in ْ
‫م‬‫ـ‬َ
‫ك‬ (Kam), leading to unclear pronunciation. This is
often seen in fast recitation.
• Solution: Slow down your recitation when practicing to ensure each letter is articulated clearly.
Gradually increase speed while maintaining clarity.

6. Inconsistent Application of Tajweed Rules:
• Mistake: Not applying rules like Ghunnah, Ikhfa, or Madd consistently. For example,
neglecting to elongate sounds appropriately or failing to nasalize letters when required.
• Solution: Familiarize yourself with Tajweed rules through study and practice. Use Quranic texts
with Tajweed markings to guide your recitation and reinforce proper application.
7. Overemphasizing Certain Letters:
• Mistake: Overarticulating or exaggerating the sound of certain letters, such as rolling the ‫ر‬ (Raa)
excessively, which can sound unnatural.
• Solution: Practice moderation in articulation. The ‫ر‬ (Raa) should be pronounced clearly but not
exaggerated. Aim for a natural flow in your recitation.

Summary of Makharij al-Huruf
Makharij al- Huruf (‫وف‬ُ
‫ر‬ُ
‫الح‬ ‫ج‬ِ
‫ر‬‫ا‬َ
‫خ‬َ
‫م‬) refers to the points of articulation for
Arabic letters, which is essential for accurate pronunciation, especially in
Quranic recitation. Each letter originates from specific areas in the vocal
tract, such as the throat, tongue, or lips, and understanding these articulation
points is vital for preserving the meaning and beauty of the recitation.

Summary of Makharij al- Huruf
Key components include:
1. Articulation Points: Each letter has a designated makhraj, affecting clarity
and correctness.
2. Characteristics of Letters: Letters possess qualities like being voiced or
voiceless, heavy or light, impacting their pronunciation.
3. Common Mistakes: Errors such as misplacing articulation points, merging
similar sounds, and overemphasizing certain letters can lead to
mispronunciation.
4. Practice and Feedback: Regular practice, listening to proficient reciters, and
seeking guidance are crucial for mastering makharij.

I m p o r t a n c e O f M a k h a r i j

Correct Pronunciation:
Ensures that each letter is pronounced accurately, preserving
the integrity of the language.

Clarity in Communication:
Enhances understanding and reduces misunderstandings in
spoken Arabic.

Preservation of Meaning:
Accurate articulation prevents distortion of meanings,
especially in the context of the Quran.

Enhancement of Recitation:
Proper Makharij improves the beauty and flow of Quranic
recitation (Tajweed).

Foundation for Arabic Literacy:
Understanding Makharij is essential for learners to read
Arabic correctly and fluently.

Cultural Significance:
Reflects respect for the language and its traditions,
particularly in religious contexts.

Historical Context of Makharij

Early Preservation of Quranic Pronunciation:
During the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) lifetime, the correct pronunciation
of the Quran was ensured directly through his teaching, as he would recite
verses to his companions.
The companions would memorize and recite the Quran under the Prophet’s
guidance, thereby preserving the exact sounds and articulation.

Emergence of Tajweed Sciences:
As the companions traveled and Islam spread, the necessity for standardized
pronunciation grew. Scholars began systematizing the rules of Tajweed
(rules of Quranic recitation), which includes Makharij.
Tajweed sciences emerged to protect the recitation from errors or distortions,
laying the groundwork for identifying and classifying the points of
articulation.

Contribution of Imam Al-Khalil ibn Ahmad Al-
Farahidi (d. 791 CE):
Al-Khalil, a renowned linguist and scholar, contributed significantly to the
understanding of Arabic phonetics and grammar.
He is known for creating the Kitab al-Ayn, the first Arabic dictionary, which
organized Arabic words based on their phonetic roots and provided insights into
letter articulation.

Modern-Day Education and Global Reach:
Today, the science of Makharij and Tajweed is taught globally in Islamic
institutions, online courses, and through digital resources, ensuring access to
authentic recitation for Muslims worldwide.
Audio-visual aids and digital applications have enhanced the teaching of
Makharij, allowing students to learn articulation points more easily by
hearing and seeing the correct pronunciation.

What is the makhraj of Qaaf (‫)ق‬
Makharaj of Qaaf:
The letter Qaaf (‫)ق‬ is pronounced by pressing the
extreme back of the tongue against the upper palate,
producing a thick, rounded sound near the tonsils.

Ghunna - Nasalistaion
Ghunna:
The quality of ghunna is present in the letters
“‫”م‬ and ”‫”ن‬. So whenever we pronounce these
letters the sound will go into the nose which
is known as ghunna.

Ghunna - Nasalistaion
Shadda:
Whenever the letter “‫“م‬ or “‫“ن‬ has a shadda
we pronounce the letter with a strong
ghunna. This means we will hold the sound in
our nose for 2 counts.

Try pronouncing the examples
below with strong ghunna.

Conclusion
This meticulous preservation of articulation points has ensured that Muslims today,
regardless of linguistic background, can recite the Quran with precision. Modern
education methods and digital tools continue this tradition, making Makharij accessible
worldwide. Historically, Makharij knowledge was systematically developed to maintain
the integrity of Quranic pronunciation as Islam spread. Early scholars like Imam Al-
Khalil ibn Ahmad Al-Farahidi and Imam Sibawayh laid foundational work in phonetics,
which was later formalized by scholars such as Ibn al-Jazari.

introduction and importance of makaraj in holy quran

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