Qirat is the Arabic word that means the recitation of the Holy Book in an attractive way. Furthermore, in Arabic, the Qirat means the Tilawah or reciting the verses of the Quran with a melodious voice. Qirat terms to beautify the recitation of the Quran on various tunes.
Similarly, there are various voices of the Qirat. You can recite the Holy Quran with the Qirat at your home or masjid. Thus, Qiraat Quran is the recitation of the heavenly Book of God in a very beautiful voice and tune.
Meaning of Qirat in Islam
Qirat’s meaning is to read the portions from the Quran either in mosques or homes to seek His mercy for humanity. Now, what is Qirat in Islam? Various lexical, language, phonetic, and syntactical varieties can recite the Quran in Islam.
In addition, there are various forms of Qirat, each with its own set of rules for word extension and pronunciation. They also differ in consonants, vowels, and less commonly completed words.
What are the 7 types of Qirat?
As Muslims, we like reciting the Quran. We all have our favorite Qaris as well. Therefore, we admire their Quranic Qiraat so much that we try to reproduce them. Isn’t this method of reciting comforts our hearts and souls? Listening to the Qiraat lets us realize how important it is. Moreover, it calms our souls and makes our hearts connect with Allah(SWT) by reciting the Quran. The various types of the Quran Qirat are mentioned below;
Qiraat Nafi’ Al-Madani (Madinah)
Abu Ruwaym ibn Abd ar-Rahman Ibn Abi Naim al-Laythi also known as Nafi al-Madani, was one of the receivers of the seven canonical Qira’at, or techniques of reciting the Qur’an. Outside of Egypt, his technique of Qur’an recitation is the most common in Africa in general, and his chain of narration dating back to the Sahabah of the Prophet Muhammad(PBUH) is well-documented.
Qirat Ibn Khatir Al Makki (Makkah)
Imam Shafi and Qunbul used this method, Al-Buzzi, to recite the Quran. Qunbul and the Qaris Al-Buzzi further conserved this recitation.
Qiraat Abu Amr al-Basri (Basra)
Qaris who have reserved this Quranic reading practice are As-Soosi and Ad-Doori.
Qiraat Ibn Aamir ash-Shami (Syria)
The two Qaris who learned and were ordered in the style of Quranic recitation were Ibn Dhakwan and Hisham.
Qiraat Asim Al-Kufi (Kufa)
This technique was normally used by Imams Abu Hanifa (RA) and Ahmad ibn Hanbal (RA) to recite the Quran. The two Qaris who reserved this method were Shuba and Hafs.
Qiraat Al-Kisaa’i (Kufa)
Ad-Doori and Al-Layth are two famous Qaris who preserve this recitation practice.
Qiraat Hamzah al-Kufi (Kufa)
Famous Qaris Khalaf and Khallad are responsible for preserving this style of reading.
What is the most popular Qirat?
The most popular and widely accepted Qiraat style among Muslims is the “Hafs An Asim” Qiraat. This style is named after two renowned figures in the history of Quranic recitation: Hafs ibn Sulayman al-Asim and Asim ibn Abi al-Najud. Hafs An Asim’s recitation style is considered the most widespread and commonly practiced method of reciting the Quran worldwide.
Hafs An Asim’s Qiraat is known for its clarity, melodic rhythm, and accessibility to learners of all levels. This Qiraat style has been meticulously transmitted through a chain of narrators, ensuring the accurate preservation of the Quranic text. It is also the Qiraat style that is used in the printing and publication of the Quran in many parts of the world.
How to read the Quran with Qirat?
Reading the Quran with a specific Qiraat style involves adopting the distinct pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm associated with that style. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to read the Quran with a Qiraat style, using the example of the “Hafs An Asim” Qiraat;
- Familiarize Yourself with the Basics
- Learn About the Chosen Qiraat Style
- Seek Knowledge from a Qualified Teacher
- Practice Regularly
- Listen to Expert Recitations
- Focus on Tajweed
- Record Yourself
- Repeat and Refine
- Seek Feedback
- Incorporate Qiraat into Worship
As you become more comfortable with the chosen Qiraat style, incorporate it into your daily prayers and recitations. This will deepen your connection with the Quran’s style and message.
Difference between Qirat and Tajweed
Qirat focuses on the various styles of recitation, emphasizing differences in pronunciation, melody, and rhythm. However, Tajweed focuses on the rules and guidelines for accurate pronunciation, ensuring that each letter and sound is pronounced correctly according to its specific characteristics.
Similarly, Qirat preserves the diversity and historical traditions of Quranic recitation styles across different regions and communities. Meanwhile, Tajweed ensures that the Quran is recited correctly to convey the intended meanings accurately while maintaining its linguistic and phonetic beauty.
Moreover, Qirat styles are chosen based on personal preference, regional traditions, and historical connections to specific scholars. Conversely, Tajweed is applied universally to all recitations of the Quran to ensure proper pronunciation, regardless of the chosen Qirat style. In addition, learning Tajweed involves understanding and applying the rules of proper pronunciation across all recitation styles to maintain accuracy and clarity.
Consequently, both Qirat and Tajweed contribute to a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Quranic text, enriching the spiritual experience of Muslims.
Conclusion
Qirat refers to the various distinct styles of recitation of the Quran. These recitation styles have been passed down through generations, each with unique pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm. Qirat styles are rooted in the way the Prophet Muhammad recited the Quran and were meticulously preserved by scholars to ensure the accurate transmission of the Quranic text. Different Qirat styles may vary in the pronunciation of certain letters, vowels’ elongation, and the recitation’s overall melody. Qirat styles are often associated with different regions or scholars specializing in a particular style. Similarly, if you want to learn the Quran with Qirat, you may visit eQuranekareem online Quran academy. We are providing the best environment for the students to learn the Quran in the comfort of their homes. Moreover, we have flexible learning time that is easily adjustable to you and your kid’s routine.
