7 Types of Qira’at and How You Can Learn Them – A Brief Guide
Whenever we require guidance, we always turn to the Quran and Sunnah. We, as Muslims, must practice recitation of the Quran daily and regularly. But did you know that the Quran can be recited in different modes?
These modes are called Qira’at, which enhances the recitation practice. It also gives us a reflection of how much linguistic depth exists in the Arabic language. Understanding these Qira’at can help improve recitation skills and form a deeper connection with the Quran. In this article, we will learn about the different types of Qira’at and how to learn them.
What Are Qira’at?
The singular word is Qira’ah, whereas the plural is called Qira’at, which refers to the different ways that Muslims can recite the Quran. These variations date back to the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and, therefore, are considered to be an authentic chain of transmission.
The different Qira’at do not alter the translation of the Quran. Rather, it is a way to show how flexible the Arabic text is. Origins of the Qira’at go back to the revelation of the concept of the Quran in the seven letters or modes.
Narrated `Umar bin Al-Khattab:
I heard Hisham bin Hakim bin Hizam reciting Surat-al-Furqan in a way different to that of mine. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) had taught it to me (in a different way). So, I was about to quarrel with him (during the prayer) but I waited till he finished, then I tied his garment round his neck and seized him by it and brought him to Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and said, “I have heard him reciting Surat-al-Furqan in a way different to the way you taught it to me.” The Prophet (ﷺ) ordered me to release him and asked Hisham to recite it. When he recited it Allah’s Apostle said, “It was revealed in this way.” He then asked me to recite it. When I recited it, he said, “It was revealed in this way. The Qur’an has been revealed in seven different ways, so recite it in the way that is easier for you.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 2419]
This was a way to tell the Muslims that the Quran was allowed to be recited in different dialects of the Arabic tribes. In [Al-Quran 54:17], Allah also mentions the ease of reciting the Quran;
وَلَقَدْ يَسَّرْنَا الْقُرْاٰنَ لِلذِّكْرِ فَہَلْ مِنْ مُّدَّكِرٍ۱۷
Easy have We made the Qur’an to understand: So is there any one who will be warned?
With time, the Qira’at were rigorously memorized so that scholars may preserve them. It also ensures that the essence of the Quran remains unchanged and authentic.
The Seven Types of Qira’at
There are seven types of Qira’at that are widely recognized by Islamic scholars. These are also popularly accepted by the Muslims all over the world. Each Qira’ah has two different narrators who have passed the recitations.
1. Qira’at Nafi’
This type of Qira’ah has originated from the Madina and is one of the most widely popular methods. It is transmitted through two narrators: Warsh and Qalun. Qira’at Nafi’ is popular for its melodic and smooth style of recitation. It is most commonly taught in North and West Africa.
2. Qira’at Ibn Kathir
This Qira’at originates from the Mecca. It is transmitted by Al-Bazzi and Qubnul. The distinct feature of this Qira’at is how the vowels and pronunciations are applied. Qira’at Ibn Kathis reflects the dialect of the Quraysh Tribe.
3. Qira’at Abu ‘Amr
This Qira’at originated from the Basra and is recited by Al-Duri and Al-Susi. It is popularly known for its clarity and subtle pauses, emphasizing comprehension.
4. Qira’at Ibn ‘Amir
The origin of this Qira’ah goes back to Damascus, and it is transmitted by two scholars, Hisham and Ibn Dhakwan. The unique recitation rules also include the variation in vowel and consonant lengths.
5. Qira’at ‘Asim
Qira’at ‘Asim is one of the most widely practices types of recitation today. It is transmitted by two scholars, Hafs and Shu’bah. Among these two, the Hafs narration is the most widely known by the Muslim community. This Qira’at is popularly recited in South Asia and the Middle East.
6. Qira’at Hamzah
The orders of the Qira’at are from Kufa and are narrated by the two scholars, Khalaf and Khallad. This Qira’at is popular for its pauses and clarity, which makes it easier for everyone to focus on the meaning of every verse.
7. Qira’at Al-Kisai
This Qira’at also originates from the Kufa and is transmitted by two scholars, Al-Duri and Abul Harith. The recitation is unique due to the elongation rules and unique pronunciation.
How to Learn the Qira’At?
Learning about Qira’at requires consistency, dedication and constant practice. Moreover, Muslims must also get guidance from qualified teachers. Here are a few steps that can help you begin the process of learning Qira’at.
1. Begin with Tajweed
The foundation of any Quranic recitation begins with learning Tajweed. Any Qira’at can never be understood without understanding the basics of tajweed. Allah mentions in the Quran;
اَوْ زِدْ عَلَيْہِ وَرَتِّلِ الْقُرْاٰنَ تَرْتِيْلًا۴ۭ
Or a little more, and recite the Qur’an slowly and distinctly.
Muslims must focus on learning the rules of Tajweed, which will help them improve their pronunciation and articulation of the language.
2. Selection of Qira’ah
Since the rules for every Qira’at are different, it is preferable to start practicing by selecting one method. You can start off by using Hafs ‘an Asim, which is the most widely practiced type of Qira’ah. Once you learn how to recite one type, you can slowly learn others as well.
3. Enrolling in a Class
You can also join a Quran academy or an online platform that offers Qira’at courses. These classes often have other similar students which helps you to stay motivated every step of the way.
4. Use References of Quran Verses
When practicing your recitations, the Quranic verse references to understand how different Qira’at are pronounced. For example, the different recitation styles can change how pronounced words affect their meanings.
5. Practice with a scholar
Practicing with a qualified teacher helps you understand the correct recitation rules. These teachers also provide feedback and give insight into the context of every Qira’ah.
6. Take Things Slowly
Learning the art of Qira’at requires patience. You must start off slow and memorize small portions of the Quran. After this, you can switch to memorizing larger sections as well.
7. Listening and Repeating
You can also listen to the experts’ recordings to learn how every Qira’at is pronounced. Special attention must be given to the rules to refine your recitation with every practice session.
The Importance of Learning the Qira’at
There are multiple benefits to understanding and practicing Qira’at:
- Every session of recitation creates a sense of appreciation regarding the depth of Arabic linguistics.
- When you become familiar with different Qira’at, you will be able to adapt to several Quranic gatherings at international levels.
- Understanding and learning different Qira’at makes you form a connection to the chain of transmission that dates back to the Prophet (PBUH).
Special importance is placed on the reciting Quran. Narrated by `Uthman:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “The best among you (Muslims) are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”
Tips to Overcome Challenges
Learning the Qira’at can seem like a difficult task, but being perseverance helps you get through it. Here are a few tips that can help you overcome these challenges:
- Manage your time effectively. Dedicate a few minutes or hours every day for practice.
- Be consistent in your daily recitations. Whether it is for 5 minutes or half an hour, daily recitation will surely help you progress effectively.
- Always remember that learning the recitation of the Quran is not temporary. It is a lifelong process and you will learn something new every day.
Conclusion
Allah says,
اِنَّ الَّذِيْنَ يَتْلُوْنَ كِتٰبَ اللہِ وَاَقَامُوا الصَّلٰوۃَ وَاَنْفَقُوْا مِمَّا رَزَقْنٰہُمْ سِرًّا وَّعَلَانِيَۃً يَّرْجُوْنَ تِجَارَۃً لَّنْ تَـبُوْرَ۲۹ۙ
Surely those who read the Book of God, are firm in devotion and spend what We have given them in secret or openly, can hope for a commerce that will not decline.
This is a promise from Allah Himself that anyone who works on learning and understanding the Quran will surely get rewarded. Therefore, it is important that we constantly work towards improving our knowledge of Quran recitation and encourage others to do the same as well.