One of the essential components of Tajweed is understanding the Sifaat ul Huroof (attributes of Arabic letters). Grasping and applying these attributes is vital for anyone seeking to recite the Quran as it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Angel Jibreel (AS).
What is Sifat (صفة)?
In Arabic, the term “sifat” denotes the features of something. In the context of Tajweed, it specifically pertains to the properties of the Arabic letters and their correct pronunciation during recitation.
What is Huroof (حروف)?
In Arabic, huroof means “letters.” The Arabic language is based on 28 letters that are found in the Quran, which are required for accurate recitation.
What is Sifaat ul Huroof?
Sifaat al-Huroof (صفات الحروف) refers to the properties and characteristics of Arabic letters in the context of Tajweed, which is the science of Quranic pronunciation and recitation. Understanding these qualities is essential for anyone learning the Quran, as they significantly impact the accuracy, beauty, and clarity of the quran recitation. It also helps prevent inaccuracy between the letters that have a resemblance in their sounds.
These sifaat (attributes) of Huroof (letters) are divided into two main categories:
- Lazimah (Permanent Sifaat): This represents the qualities that are always present in a letter, irrespective of its context.
- Araziyah (Temporary Sifaat): This refers to the qualities that depend on the context, such as the placement of the letter in a word or its complementary vowels.
Detailed Explanation of Sifaat ul Huroof
Sifaat ul Huroof are classified into various attributes. Moreover, each plays a crucial role in proper pronunciation. Here is a detailed analysis of each one.
1. Hams (Breathiness):
This trait permits airflow when we pronounce certain letters, resulting in a soft sound.
Letters with Hams: ف، ح، ث، ه، ش، ص، س، ك، ت.
Example: In the word فَصْلٌ, the word is expressed with a soft, light, and breathy sound due to Hams.
2. Jahr (Strength):
This trait is opposite to Hams; Jahr prevents airflow, and it produces a powerful, solid sound.
Letters with Jahr: All remaining letters except those of Hams.
3. Shiddah (firmness):
This trait allows a firm pause of sound. The airflow stops completely when pronouncing these letters.
Letters with Shiddah: أ، ج، د، ط، ب، ق، ك، ت.
Example: In the word أَكْبَر, the wordك demonstrates Shiddah that produces a firm stoppage of sound.
4. Rikhwah (softness):
This trait is contrary to Shiddah. Moreover, Rikhwah permits soft and continuous airflow.
Letters with Rikhwah: All remaining letters except those of Shiddah and Tawassut.
Example: In the word رَحْمَة, the letter ح permits smooth airflow, and this shows Rikhwah.
5. Tawassut (in-between):
These characters come in between Shiddah and Rikhwah. They permit limited closure and flow of air.
Letters with Tawassut: ل، ن، ع، م، ر.
6. Isti’laa (Elevation):
This quality leads to the sound uplifting in the mouth. This quality creates a heavy tone.
Letters with Isti’laa: خ، ص، ض، غ، ط، ق، ظ.
Example: In the word ظَالِم, the word ظ generates a heavy tone because of Isti’laa.
7. Istifaal (Lowering):
This trait is the opposite of Isti’laa; all the characters create a light sound.
Letters with Istifaal: This contains all the remaining letters apart from those of Isti’laa.
8. Itbaaq (Pressing):
This tone is pressed between our tongue and the roof of our mouth.
Letters with Itbaaq: ص، ض، ط، ظ.
9. Infitah (Detachment):
In this trait, our tongue disconnects from the roof of the mouth. It usually generates an open sound.
Letters with Infitah: All characters excluding those of Itbaaq.
10. Qalqalah (Vibration):
This trait produces an echoing sound when the letter is in Sukoon (static) condition.
Letters with Qalqalah: ق، ط، ب، ج، د.
Example: In the word قَدْر, the word د generates a little echo because of Qalqalah.
Conclusion
In simple words, Sifaat ul Huroof is an important part of Tajweed that assures the precise and beautiful recitation of the Quran. Furthermore, to understand the unique attributes of Arabic letters, you can take a free trial online quran class at Quran Spirit and learn the rules of Tajweed proficiently.
