Is learning Tajweed important? Can A Muslim pray in the salah without Tajweed? These are the questions that we are trying to answer in this article.
What is Tajweed?
Tajweed or tajwid is derived from an Arabic word (تَجْوِيدْ) which means to enhance the style or to make something outstanding. In context with the recitation of the Quran Tajweed means a set of linguistic rules that if followed will resemble the recitation exactly to how it was recited in the times of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The pronunciation rules are derived from the oral recitation of the Quran by the Prophet (PBUH) himself on various occasions.
Tajweed can also be defined as:
“The practice of reciting the words of Allah (Quran) the way his Prophet Muhammad ﷺ did.”
Well, the above was all about the lateral and contextual meaning of the word Tajweed itself. Tajweed is one of the important pillars of our recitation of the Quran in Dua and Salah. So, it is particularly important to learn. It can only be learned by listening to an expert tutor and then by again reciting to him to be corrected at places where you were wrong.
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Is learning Tajweed Obligatory?
There are two opinions regarding the question “Can I recite the Quran Without Tajweed?.” A group of scholars argues you must learn the Tajweed and reach an advanced level of Tajweed. But another group of scholars argues you only need to learn the basics of Tajweed that will help you pronounce the letters and words correctly. In either opinion, you have to learn the basics.
Now in the current era, it is all about the desirable opinion of the reader itself and Tajweed is not obligatory. As it was all about reciting the Quran aloud with a pleasant tone. It is not obligatory but is preferable to read with Tajweed.
According to ancient scholars, Tajweed was obligatory as at those times the official language was Arabic, and the Quran was also revealed and recited by the prophet in Arabic. But with the passage of time as Islam began to spread Arabs got mixed with non-Arabs then it became difficult for them to recite Quran in accordance with its Tajweed. So, it was made obligatory.
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Why is Learning Tajweed Important?
Tajweed is important because the Quran is the holy book with noble words of our creator Allah Almighty. HE Himself revealed the Quran to its Prophet for the guidance of humanity. The language barrier leads to improper pronunciation which will alter the meaning of the words.
How can one alter the words of his God? Therefore, Tajweed is necessary and important because in Arabic a slight change in pronunciation can change the meaning of the Quran which can lead one to sin. Therefore, Tajweed is necessary to be learned and practiced.
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Is Reciting with Tajweed obligatory in Salah?
Tajweed itself is important to learn and practice, but the recitation of the Quran and at least a few verses in the salah is obligatory. Salah with Tajweed is not obligatory but it is a benefactor for one to learn the Tajweed and practice it if he can. As it can increase his reward in terms of Thawab and can save one from the sin of altering the meaning of the actual words.
The rules of Ikhfaa, including Ikhfaa Shafawi and Haqiqi, are integral to the proper recitation of the Quran. These rules govern the pronunciation of certain letters following specific conditions. Learn more about these rules in our detailed guide on Ikhfaa Letters And Rules – Ikhfaa Shafawi & Haqiqi With Examples
Learning Tajweed basics
It is obligatory for every Muslim to focus on learning Tajweed, especially the basics of Tajweed. He should know how to pronounce the words of the Quran correctly with different vocal and tongue movements. Tajweed is important to learn as it can help one to avoid committing the sins of altering the words of Allah.
Tajweed is not obligatory to practice in the recitation of the Quran and surahs in Salah. Though it is preferable and benefactor to recite Quran and Salah with Tajweed as it doubles up the reward for recitation.
The duration it takes to learn Tajweed can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the learner’s dedication, consistency, and the complexity of the rules. For a more detailed discussion on this topic, refer to our article: How long does it take to learn Tajweed for beginners.
