Learning and reciting the Qur’an correctly is not just a noble act, it is an obligation for every Muslim. The science of Tajweed ensures that the Qur’an is recited in the exact manner it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and passed down generation after generation with precision and continuity.

What is Tajweed?

Tajweed literally means “to make better or to beautify.” In Islamic terminology, it refers to reciting the Qur’an correctly, giving each letter its proper articulation point (makhraj), fulfilling its rights, and observing its characteristics without exaggeration or deficiency.

“The Qur’an, in the manner it was revealed to the Holy Prophet ﷺ, the way he recited it to his noble Companions (RA), and the way it was transmitted to us generation after generation — that very style of recitation is called Tajweed.” (ʿIlm al-Taʿrīfāt)

Qur’anic Command for Measured Recitation

وَرَتِّلِ الْقُرْآنَ تَرْتِيلًا

“And recite the Qur’an with measured recitation.” (Surah al-Muzzammil, 73:4)

Sayyiduna ʿAli (RA) explained tarteel as: “Correct articulation of letters and recognition of stopping points.” (al-Itqan fi ʿUlum al-Qur’an)

اَلَّذِينَ آتَيْنَاهُمُ الْكِتَابَ يَتْلُونَهُ حَقَّ تِلَاوَتِهِ

“Those to whom We have given the Book recite it with its true recital.” (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:121)

Obligation of Tajweed

Imam Ibn al-Jazari (رحمه الله) stated:

وَالأَخْذُ بِالتَّجْوِيدِ حَتْمٌ لازِمُ
مَنْ لَمْ يُجَوِّدِ القُرْآنَ آثِمُ

“Observing Tajweed is an obligatory duty. Whoever does not recite the Qur’an with Tajweed is sinful.” (al-Jazariyyah)

The Danger of Neglecting Tajweed

The Prophet ﷺ warned:

رُبَّ تَالٍ لِلْقُرْآنِ وَالْقُرْآنُ يَلْعَنُهُ

“Many are those who recite the Qur’an, but the Qur’an curses them.” (Ihyaʾ ʿUlum al-Din)

Practical Steps to Correct Recitation

• Learn directly from a qualified teacher skilled in Tajweed — see our Qur’an Courses.
• Use easy Tajweed books written in Urdu or English by scholars — visit our Islamic PDF Library.
• Join Qur’an correction circles in mosques or online.
• Practice the Noorani Qaida — start with our Qaida Course.
• Listen daily to Qur’an recitations of famous Imams.

Conclusion

The Qur’an is the word of Allah — it deserves to be recited with accuracy, beauty, and humility. Tajweed is not just a science for scholars, but a personal responsibility of every Muslim.

At Al Maknoon Quran Academy, we are dedicated to teaching the Qur’an with Tajweed, ensuring every student — child or adult — can recite the Book of Allah as it was revealed. Explore more in our Islamic Blog or browse resources in the PDF Library.