Exploring the Basics: Types of Madd in Tajweed

Types of madd in tajweed are central aspects of this science, teaching you how a simple letter or even a hamzah can completely change the way you recite. Tajweed is one of the most beautiful sciences one can learn, as it goes beyond the mere articulation of words; it connects the reciter to the Quran in a deeply spiritual way. 

By mastering Tajweed, a Muslim ensures that every syllable and every sound of Allah’s words is pronounced exactly as intended, preserving the divine essence of the Quran.

Why Learn Tajweed Rules?

Learning Tajweed rules is essential for anyone wishing to read and recite the Qur’an correctly and properly.  Here are some of the main reasons why learning Tajweed is important:

• Tajweed ensures that the words and meanings of the Qur’an are not distorted, as even slight mispronunciations can change the meaning of a verse.

• It Helps fulfill the obligation of reciting the Qur’an correctly, as prescribed in Islam, especially during prayer.

• Tajweed ensures that the Arabic letters are pronounced correctly to avoid altering the intended meaning of the words.

• Tajweed requires concentration and mindfulness while reciting, enhancing the overall quality of the recitation.

• It helps the reciter understand the deeper meanings of the Qur’an by highlighting emphasis and pauses in verses.

• Tajweed makes memorizing the Qur’an easier, as the rhythm and rules of Tajweed aid in recall.

What is Madd in Tajweed?

In Tajweed, “Madd” means lengthening vowel sounds while reciting the Qur’an. This technique involves extending the pronunciation of specific letters associated with Madd, which enhances the beauty and melodic quality of the recitation. The Arabic term “Madda” captures this concept of prolongation, highlighting its significance in achieving accurate and expressive recitation. Mastering Madd is essential for any Qur’anic reciter, as it not only enriches the auditory experience but also ensures that the recitation adheres to the rules of Tajweed.

The Letters of Madd

In Tajweed, there are three primary letters associated with the rule of Madd (elongation): Alif (ا), Waaw (و), and Yaa’ (ي). These letters play a central role in the elongation of vowel sounds during the recitation of the Quran. They are grouped together in the Arabic word نُوحِيهَا, which serves as a mnemonic to remember them.

1. Alif (ا) is the first letter of Madd letters, and it makes the vowel sound “a” longer when it comes after a fatha.
2. Waaw (و) elongates the u vowel sound when it follows a dhammah.
3. Yaa’ (ي) elongates the i vowel sound when it follows a kasrah.

These letters of Madd are vital to the rhythmic and harmonious flow of Quranic recitation, and they must appear in specific conditions for the elongation to occur.

The Rules of Madd in Tajweed

• When the Madd letter is Alif (ا), the letter before it should have a fatha (ــَ), and the Alif should not make a sound. This makes the “a” sound longer.
• When the letter Waaw (و) is used as a Madd, the letter before it should have a dhammah (ــُ), and the Waaw should not make a sound. This elongates the “u” vowel sound.
• When the Madd letter is Yaa’ (ي), the letter before it must have a kasrah (ــِ), and the Yaa’ itself remains silent, elongating the “i” vowel sound.

The application of Madd enhances the beauty and accuracy of Quranic recitation by creating a flowing and harmonious sound. But, it’s important to note that Madd doesn’t happen if the Madd letter has a sukoon (ــْ) after it. If that one letter before the “Madd” letter is recognized as hamza (ء), the vowel sound “a” cannot be extended.

How many types of Madd inTajweed

There are 2 main types of madd in tajweed, each with its unique characteristics and conditions for application. The primary types of Madd are:

1. Al-Madd Al-Asli (The Original Madd): This is the natural Madd and occurs when there is no hamza or sukoon after the Madd letter. It is a straightforward elongation that occurs without any additional cause.

2. Al-Madd Al-Far’i (The Secondary Madd): This type of Madd is an extension of the original Madd, caused by specific factors such as a hamza or sukoon. 

This Madd Far’i has several subcategories:

• Al-Madd Al-Muttasil

This type of Madd is mandatory and extends the vowel for four to six counts, depending on the situation, and it exists in case one madd letter is followed by a hamza in the same  exact word

• Al-Madd Al-Munfasil

In this case, a Madd letter is followed by a hamza, but the Madd letter and hamza are in different words. This type allows for a shorter elongation (two counts) but can also be lengthened to four or five counts.

• Al-Madd Al-‘Aridh

It also happens when a Madd letter has a temporary sukoon because of a break (like at the end of a line). It can be pronounced with varying lengths: two, four, or six counts.

• Al-Madd Al-Badal

This happens when a hamza comes before a Madd letter in the same word. It is typically elongated for two counts, similar to the natural Madd, though some reciters may treat it as a separate Madd type.

• Al-Madd Al-Lazim

This type of madd happens when a Madd letter is followed by a permanent sukoon after it, either within a word or a letter. The elongation for this type of Madd is fixed at six counts and is obligatory.

Different Types of Madd with Examples

Al-Madd Al-Asli
Example:

• “نَارًا” The letter (ا) comes after a fatha (ــَ).

Al-Madd Al-Far’i:

• Al-Madd Al-Muttasil
  Example:

• “السرائر”: here, in this word, the hamzah comes right after the madd letter

• Al-Madd Al-Munfasil
  Example:

• “يَآ أَيُّهَا”: The Yaa (ي) is followed by a hamza (ء) in the next word, making it a separate Madd.

• Al-Madd Al-‘Aridh
  Example:

• “الحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ”: The Yaa (ي) is followed by a sukoon due to the pause, allowing for flexible elongation.

• Al-Madd Al-Lazim
  Example: “ءالآن”

Learn Different Tajweed Rules with Noor Institute  

If you are curious to learn more about the types of Madd in Tajweed and other essential Tajweed lessons, Noor Institute offers a comprehensive online Tajweed course designed for learners of all levels. This course delves into the various types of Tajweed, teaching students how to apply them correctly in Qur’anic recitation. Additionally, the institute offers a wide range of comprehensive Islamic and Arabic courses, all designed for learners of all ages.

 With expert instructors guiding students through each phase, the tajweed course combines both theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, ensuring learners master the art of recitation. 

Noor Institute’s flexible schedules and personalized support make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to improve their recitation skills while deepening their spiritual connection to the Qur’an.

Ready to master Tajweed? Book your free trial session now!