Learning Tajweed and Qirat Without Knowing Arabic Comprehensive Guide

Tajweed and Qira’ah are among the sciences related to the study of the Holy Quran and its rulings. In addition, these sections are concerned with studying the Qur’an.

And how to pronounce it in a correct manner, free from melody or linguistic errors that the reader may fall into. 

Therefore, it is considered one of the important sciences that must be learned.

With regard to the great importance of learning and research in the sciences of the Qur’an, we will discuss ways to study Tajweed and Qira’ah without knowledge of the Arabic language. 

In addition, we will analyze most of the problems that the student or learner encounters during the learning journey and provide realistic and tangible solutions to radically overcome these problems.

Lack of Understanding Arabic

When it comes to studying tajweed and the sciences of Qirat, learning the Arabic language is very necessary to understand these sciences well in addition to that in order to become proficient in the Arabic language.

And the provisions of tajweed in the future, on the contrary, a Muslim may face many challenges in learning tajweed and Qiraat if he is not familiar with the language Arabic, and below we will learn about these challenges.

How knowledge of Arabic can help in understanding Tajweed and Qira’ah

Knowledge of Arabic is highly beneficial when it comes to understanding Tajweed and Qira’ah, the proper pronunciation, and the recitation of the Quran. Here’s how knowledge of Arabic can assist in comprehending and practicing Tajweed:

Pronunciation accuracy:

Arabic has unique sounds and letters that do not exist in other languages. Learning Arabic enables you to accurately pronounce the Arabic letters and sounds essential for Tajweed. It helps you understand the proper articulation of each letter, including the characteristics and points of articulation (makharij).

Grasping the rules:

Tajweed encompasses a set of rules that govern the pronunciation and recitation of the Quran. Many of these rules are based on the specific characteristics and interactions of Arabic letters. Knowledge of Arabic allows you to comprehend these rules more deeply, as you can directly relate them to the structure and patterns of the Arabic language.

Vocabulary comprehension:

Arabic vocabulary plays a crucial role in understanding the meanings and context of Quranic verses. A solid grasp of Arabic vocabulary allows you to appreciate the nuances and beauty of the Quran’s language, enhancing your overall understanding of the text. This knowledge aids in the application of Tajweed rules, as you can better appreciate the linguistic elements being emphasized.

Connection with the Quran:

The Quran is the direct word of Allah revealed in Arabic. Understanding Arabic helps you establish a direct connection with the Quranic text. It allows you to engage with the original language, appreciate the subtleties, and gain deeper insights into the intended meanings, metaphorical expressions, and rhetorical devices employed in the Quran.

Independent analysis

Knowledge of Arabic empowers you to independently analyze Quranic verses, study tafsir (exegesis), and explore various interpretations. It enables you to engage with the rich scholarly tradition of Quranic studies and access original Arabic commentaries, opening doors to a more comprehensive understanding of the Quran.

Adherence to Tajweed rules:

Tajweed aims to preserve the correct recitation and melody of the Quran. With knowledge of Arabic, you can better comprehend the reasons behind the Tajweed rules and appreciate their significance in maintaining the integrity of the Quran’s recitation. You can apply the rules with greater accuracy, ensuring that your recitation adheres to the prescribed guidelines.

You can join our Noorani Qaida course online free trial for a better understanding.

Challenges faced when trying to understand the rules of Tajweed without knowing Arabic

The learner is expected to face many challenges when it comes to learning Arabic pronunciation (Tajweed) and gaining knowledge or understanding of the Arabic language, such as:

1- Difficulty in pronunciation:

It is worth mentioning that the Arabic language includes many individual and compound sounds that distinguish it from other languages. Therefore, the student may have difficulty in recognizing and pronouncing these letters.

2- Lack of understanding of word meanings:

Teaching Tajweed is only done in the Arabic language, and in this case, the student may encounter a lack of understanding of the teacher’s instructions or the linguistic terms used during the lesson.

3- Lack of learning resources:

In this case, the learner will resort to relying solely on translated sources. It is worth mentioning that these sources are limited compared to other available resources in the Arabic language.

Limited Access to Resources

As we mentioned earlier, the sources available in the Arabic language are many and varied from books to different scholars, and thus you can easily view and review them at any time. 

On the contrary, the sources available in English or other languages depend on translation in the first place, so these sources are compared to the original sources.

Limited resources available in non-Arabic speaking countries

Whatever your country, the available sources are a translation of the original intonation books. It is worth noting that the translation may lose the original meaning of the text even if the translator takes into account the original text, but the Arabic language remains the source of powerful words and changes.

Difficulty in finding a qualified tajweed tutor who can teach Tajweed and Qira’ah

Finding qualified teachers who can teach Tajweed and Qira’ah can indeed be challenging, especially for non-Arabic speakers. Here are some reasons behind this difficulty and potential solutions:

1- Limited availability:

Qualified Tajweed and Qira’ah teachers may be scarce, especially outside Arabic-speaking regions. 

It can be challenging to find teachers who specialize in these subjects, as they require specific expertise and knowledge.

2- Language barrier:

Many qualified teachers may primarily speak Arabic, making it difficult for non-Arabic speakers to communicate effectively and understand the lessons. 

Language barriers can hinder the learning process and limit the ability to fully grasp the nuances of Tajweed and Qira’ah.

3- Cultural and geographical limitations:

Access to qualified teachers may be constrained by cultural and geographical factors. 

In some regions, there may be a lack of local resources or communities where qualified teachers are available. 

This can be particularly challenging for individuals living in remote areas or regions with a limited Arabic-speaking population.

4- Verification of qualifications:

It can be difficult to assess the qualifications and expertise of potential teachers. 

Without a deep understanding of Tajweed and Qira’ah, it may be challenging to determine if a teacher is truly qualified. 

There is a risk of encountering individuals who claim to be qualified but lack the necessary expertise.

5- Financial considerations:

Qualified teachers often charge fees for their services, and this can be a barrier for some individuals who may not have the financial means to afford private lessons or courses.

How to Find a Qualified Quran Tajweed Teacher?

Despite these challenges, there are ways to overcome them and find Arabic language tutors:

1- Local Arabic-speaking communities:

Engaging with local Arabic-speaking communities, mosques, or Islamic centers can help you connect with qualified teachers who specialize in Tajweed and Qira’ah. 

These communities often have resources and networks that can assist in finding the right teachers.

2- Online resources and platforms:

Utilize online platforms that offer Tajweed and Quran recitation courses free trials or connect students with qualified teachers. 

Virtual classes can provide access to qualified teachers regardless of geographical location.

3- Recommendations and referrals:

Seek recommendations from trusted individuals who have experience learning Tajweed and Qira’ah. They may be able to refer you to qualified teachers or reputable institutions.

4- Accredited institutions:

Look for reputable institutions and organizations that offer accredited Tajweed and Qira’ah programs. 

These institutions often have qualified teachers who have undergone rigorous training and certification processes.

5- Self-study resources:

In the absence of qualified teachers, self-study resources such as textbooks, and online tutorials.

And audio recordings can help you develop a foundational understanding of Tajweed and Qira’ah. 

While self-study is not a substitute for formal instruction, it can serve as a starting point until you can find a qualified teacher.

The need for resources that can bridge the gap between Arabic and non-Arabic speakers

The need for resources that bridge the gap between Arabic and non-Arabic speakers is essential for promoting understanding, communication, and learning between individuals who come from different linguistic backgrounds. Here are some reasons why such resources are important:

• Communication and cultural exchange: Arabic is spoken by hundreds of millions of people around the world. Bridging the language gap allows for better communication and facilitates cultural exchange between Arabic speakers and non-Arabic speakers. It enables people to connect, build relationships, and foster mutual understanding.

• Education and learning: Arabic is the language of the Quran and has a rich literary and cultural heritage. Resources that help non-Arabic speakers learn Arabic provide access to a vast body of knowledge, including classical Islamic texts, literature, and historical documents. They enable individuals to deepen their understanding of Islamic teachings, engage with Arabic literature, and explore the diverse intellectual traditions associated with the language.

• Integration and multicultural societies: In multicultural societies, where people from different linguistic backgrounds live together, resources that bridge the Arabic-non-Arabic language gap promote integration and social cohesion. They empower individuals to participate fully in society, access services, and engage with their local communities. This inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and promotes multicultural understanding.

Pronunciation Difficulties

Each language has its own sound system through which its learners can know it, and the speech process goes through five stages linked to each other.

Starting from the psychological and mental events of the speaker, then the process of issuing speech represented by sounds produced by the articulation apparatus.

And the vibrations that transmit the sound, then the psychological and mental processes and events of the listener.

The basic material of speech is sound, and there may be many forms of pronunciation of the sound in speech, but it is one in the language.

The alphabetical writing preserves one drawing in all forms of pronunciation, and one of the oldest Arab Muslims who cared about this science was Al-Khalil bin Ahmed Al-Farahidi.

The sounds unique to Arabic that are essential in Tajweed and Qira’ah

In Tajweed and Qira’ah, the proper pronunciation and recitation of the Quran, there are certain sounds unique to the Arabic language that play a crucial role. These sounds are essential for accurate recitation and understanding of the Quran. Here are some of the key sounds:

• Makhraj: Makhraj refers to the point of articulation or the place from where a sound originates in the mouth. There are specific makharij (plural of makhraj) for each letter of the Arabic alphabet. Understanding and mastering the correct makhraj for each letter is essential for Tajweed and Qira’ah.

How to Pronounce the Arabic letters with unique sounds?

1. Ghayn (غ): This is a deep sound that originates from the throat, similar to the French “r” sound in “Paris.”
2. Qaf (ق): This is a guttural sound that is pronounced from the back of the throat, with a slight constriction.
3. Ain (ع): This is a deep, guttural sound that is produced from the deepest part of the throat, often described as a “whispering” sound.

Tajweed symbols:

Tajweed utilizes various symbols and diacritical marks to indicate specific pronunciation rules. Some of the symbols used include:

Sukun

A small circle is placed above a letter, indicating that it should be pronounced with complete closure and no vowel sound.

Shaddah

A small W-shaped symbol is placed above a letter, indicating that it should be doubled in pronunciation.

Madd

A curved symbol is placed above or below a letter, indicating that the letter should be elongated in pronunciation.

Characteristics of letters

Tajweed also focuses on the characteristics of specific letters, which impact their pronunciation when interacting with other letters. For example:

a) Ikhfa and Idhar Letters: This refers to the nasal pronunciation of certain letters when followed by specific letters, such as noon or meem.

b) Idgham: This refers to the assimilation or merging of specific letters when they come in close proximity to each other.

Tajweed Rules of Pronunciation

Tajweed encompasses various rules related to pronunciation, such as:

a) Ghunnah: This rule relates to nasalization and the proper pronunciation of the noon and meem sakinah.

b) Qalqalah: This rule applies to the letters qaf, ta, ba, jeem, and dal when they appear with sukun. It involves a slight bounce or echo in pronunciation.

How to overcome pronunciation difficulties when learning Tajweed and Qira’ah

Dear Muslim, you can overcome the problems of the Arabic language while learning Tajweed in several ways, including the help of a teacher who is fluent in Tajweed and the Arabic language, or choosing resources to learn and practice the Arabic language to help you significantly strengthen your level.

Lack of Motivation

When it comes to studying a difficult major or learning for long hours of the day, it is expected that the student will feel very bored while studying or, perhaps a loss of passion and poor concentration, so we will present effective solutions that help you overcome boredom and loss of passion.

How to overcome the lack of motivation

Losing passion when it comes to studying or studying is very difficult and uncontrollable, so here are some practical solutions to overcome this:

• Choose suitable study methods for you, in other words, if you are a distance learning enthusiast, register on some electronic platforms, and if you are a study enthusiast, look at paper sources.

• Choose the times of activity in your day and start studying them in order to get the maximum benefit.

• Divide large tasks into smaller and smaller parts so that you do not feel heavy or bored while studying.

The importance of being consistent

When continuous learning becomes a habit, it will become second nature – and you’ll be surprised how productive you can be as a result.

Not only will you be able to get more done, but you’ll also find that your work is of a higher quality. 

This is because when you are constantly learning, your mind is always active and engaged – so you are more likely to come up with creative solutions to problems.

Cultural and Religious Barriers

The cultural factor plays an effective and vital role in transmitting information and the heritage of every religion, including Islam. 

Therefore, we are always keen on the Hamil Al Quran to transfer the Islamic heritage before the scientific material to students.

How cultural and religious differences can create barriers when learning Tajweed and Qiraat

It is worth noting that religious culture affects the way of taking knowledge or learning in general, and below we will learn about the reasons:

1- Pronunciation:

Tajweed focuses on the precise pronunciation of Arabic letters and sounds. Cultural and regional accents can affect the pronunciation of certain letters.

Making it challenging for learners from different backgrounds to master the correct pronunciation. 

For example, individuals who speak Arabic as a second language might struggle with specific phonetic distinctions that native Arabic speakers find natural.

2- Script and Language:

Tajweed is closely tied to the Arabic language, and the Quran is written in Arabic script. Non-Arabic speakers may face difficulties in recognizing and pronouncing Arabic letters accurately.

Learning a new script can be challenging, especially for individuals accustomed to different writing systems. 

Cultural and religious differences can affect the exposure and familiarity with Arabic script, further complicating the learning process.

you may read Learn to Read Quran Word by Word: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

3- Cultural Interpretations:

Tajweed rules are interpreted and implemented differently across various cultural and regional contexts. 

There may be variations in the way certain rules are taught, emphasized, or even prioritized. This can be attributed to diverse scholarly opinions, cultural practices, and the influence of local traditions. 

Such variations can lead to confusion or conflicts when individuals from different cultural backgrounds come together to learn Tajweed.

4- Teaching Methods:

Teaching methods can vary depending on cultural and religious contexts. 

Some educational systems may prioritize rote memorization, while others emphasize understanding and application of rules. 

Students who are accustomed to a specific teaching style may struggle to adapt to a different approach, hindering their progress in learning Tajweed and Qira’ah.

5- Religious Beliefs and Practices:

Tajweed and Qira’ah are deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and religious practices. 

Learners from different religious backgrounds may have varying levels of familiarity with Islamic teachings, which can impact their understanding and appreciation of the spiritual aspects of Tajweed. 

Moreover, individuals with differing religious beliefs might approach the subject with different motivations and perspectives, potentially affecting their engagement and dedication to the learning process.

The importance of understanding the context of Tajweed and Qira’ah in Islamic culture

The rules of Tajweed are one of the most important sciences that are concerned with the recitation of the Holy Quran. 

They are characterized by adding a special melody to the Quranic verses and working on conveying the meanings in a better and more accurate way. This helps in understanding the meanings in a deeper and better manner. 

This can be achieved through mastering the rules of Tajweed because they work on distinguishing and separating the letters accurately. 

This is related to the arrangement of the Quranic verses and the weakening and elongation of the letters, allowing the words to be pronounced in the appropriate and desired manner. 

This leads to improving the quality of reading and recitation and consequently leads to a more precise and better understanding of the meanings, concepts, and rulings mentioned in the Holy Quran. 

Therefore, mastering the rules of Tajweed can lead to a distinctive experience in understanding the meanings of the Holy Quran and appreciating the beauty of its melodic tone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning tajweed and Qira’ah is necessary and important to keep the reader’s tongue from falling into melody or error, but on the contrary, especially if you are not convinced of the Arabic language.

You may face many challenges in learning tajweed and Qira’ah, including the lack of resources as well as the lack of a teacher. Hamil Al Quran is a Learn Quran and Islamic studies online Academy, That has enough experience to provide you with the necessary information. We have provided you in our article with all the information you need as a student during your journey in learning tajweed and its Qira’ah.