Should You Listen to The Recitations of Omar Hisham Al-Araby | Arabic101

Summary

In this video, the speaker addresses the frequently asked question regarding the recitations of Brother Omar Hishem. While his recitations mostly follow the rules of Tajweed, his unique performance style, influenced by Western scales and occasional use of audio effects like autotune, raises concerns. The video emphasizes the importance of proper recitation for learning and reflection, recommending more accurate reciters for those focused on studying the Quran. Ultimately, the speaker encourages listeners to approach Quran recitation as a means to connect with Allah, not just for auditory enjoyment.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video addresses the frequently asked question about listening to the recitations of Brother Omar Hishem and whether they are permissible.
• 😀 The speaker explains that they prefer not to mention names but decided to address this topic due to the number of questions asked about Brother Omar's recitations.
• 😀 The two key criteria to assess the recitations are Tajwid (proper pronunciation and rules of recitation) and performance (beauty and tone of recitation).
• 😀 Tajwid in Brother Omar's recitations is mostly accurate, though there are minor issues with clarity in certain recordings due to added sound effects and reverb.
• 😀 Performance (Tartil) refers to beautifying the recitation within limits, but it should not resemble singing or go beyond what is permitted.
• 😀 Some of Brother Omar's recitations resemble Western singing scales, which may be perceived as unusual or inappropriate for Quranic recitation.
• 😀 While autotune is not heavily used, it can be detected in some of Brother Omar's recitations, which raises concerns about the authenticity of the recitation.
• 😀 Some recitation practices, like voice breaking, are done intentionally by Brother Omar, which is viewed as inappropriate for Quran recitation.
• 😀 The categorization of recitations on Brother Omar's channel focuses more on style rather than content, which can distract from the Quran's message.
• 😀 The speaker advises that if you're learning the Quran, it may be better to listen to other reciters who focus more on clarity and avoid unnecessary effects.
• 😀 The main purpose of listening to Quranic recitation is not entertainment but to draw closer to Allah through reflection and understanding the meanings of the verses.

Q & A

Why does the speaker prefer not to specify names in lessons?

The speaker prefers not to specify names in lessons to maintain a focus on the subject matter and not on individual personalities. However, due to repeated questions about a specific reciter, the speaker addresses this issue directly.

What are the two key points examined when evaluating the recitations of Brother Omar Hishem?

The two key points are: 1) Tajwid, which refers to the correct application of the rules of pronunciation and recitation of the Quran. 2) Performance, or Tartil, which refers to the way the Quran is recited, focusing on its beauty and tone.

What is Tajwid, and why is it important in Quran recitation?

Tajwid refers to the set of rules that govern the correct pronunciation, timing of letters, pauses, and avoiding mistakes in Quran recitation. It ensures that the recitation is accurate and preserves the meaning of the Quran.

What is the significance of the concept of performance (Tartil) in Quran recitation?

Tartil refers to the way in which the Quran is recited to highlight its beauty and tone. While it is encouraged to beautify the recitation, it must not overemphasize the sound at the expense of the meaning, and it should remain within the limits of what is considered appropriate in Islamic teachings.

Why does Brother Omar Hishem's recitation sound different from others?

Brother Omar Hishem’s recitations sound different because they resemble the Western style or scales of singing, which can make the recitation seem like singing rather than a pure recitation of the Quran.

What is the issue with using Western musical scales in Quranic recitation?

Using Western musical scales or styles, especially those found in church hymns and songs, can make the recitation resemble religious songs, which may shift focus away from the Quran's message and its intended purpose.

Is autotune used in Brother Omar Hishem's recitations?

While not heavily used, autotune or audio processing is audible in some of Brother Omar Hishem’s recitations. This could distort the natural voice and may not align with the traditional method of reciting the Quran.

What is problematic about Brother Omar's deliberate style of breaking his voice while reciting?

Brother Omar deliberately breaking his voice during recitation is problematic because it deviates from the traditional and respectful way of reciting the Quran, which was done by the Prophet and the companions without such exaggeration.

What concern arises from categorizing recitations by style rather than by content?

When recitations are categorized by style or sound rather than content, the focus may shift from understanding and reflecting on the Quranic message to the auditory experience, which can distract from the true purpose of recitation.

Should you listen to Brother Omar Hishem's recitations?

It is not wrong to listen to Brother Omar Hishem’s recitations if done with the right intention, as long as listeners can discern what is moderate and natural. However, for learning purposes or pondering over the meanings of the Quran, it’s recommended to listen to reciters who adhere to clearer and more traditional recitation methods.