The SEVEN Ahrof & the TEN Qira'aat of Quran - EXPLAINED! - Arabic101

Summary

This video explores the concept of variations in the Holy Quran, focusing on the seven different recitations (Harf). It explains how these variations were revealed to accommodate different dialects and add richness to the Quranic meaning without contradictions. The video also discusses the role of scholars (Qurra) and their students (Rawi) in preserving these recitations, as well as the importance of following the authentic modes of recitation. Additionally, it clarifies why contemporary dialects cannot replace these traditional recitations and offers resources for further learning.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Quran was revealed in seven different variations (Harf), which represent different dialects and pronunciations of Arabic at the time of its revelation.
• 😀 These seven variations, called 'Harfs,' are considered divinely sanctioned and were revealed simultaneously, not as a result of human decision-making.
• 😀 There are three main reasons for the existence of these variations: to ease reading for people from different dialectical backgrounds, to enrich the meaning without contradiction, and to strengthen the challenge against disbelievers.
• 😀 The variations in the Quran can involve differences in grammar, nouns, conjugation of verbs, word order, and syntactic choices, all of which maintain the same meaning.
• 😀 Some variations add multiple dimensions to verses, like the distinction between 'being killed' and 'fighting' in the cause of Allah, expanding the meaning without conflict.
• 😀 A 'Qira'at' is a mode of recitation of the Quran that is based on the selection of variations made by one of the ten confirmed masters (Qurra). Each master taught a distinct set of variations.
• 😀 The seven variations are not interchangeable with modern dialects of Arabic; using contemporary dialects like Sudanese or Egyptian would distort the meaning of the Quran.
• 😀 There are ten confirmed masters of Qira'at, each with two students who specialize in different variations. These students are known as 'Rawi' (narrators).
• 😀 You can study the variations of the Quran through resources like ncquran.com, which compares all the different modes of recitation, and other sites like quranfl.com.
• 😀 Beginners in Quranic recitation are advised to focus on one mode of recitation first to master it before exploring the others. However, it is important to understand the concept of 'seven Harfs' to defend against misconceptions.

Q & A

What are the 'seven' of the Quran and what do they represent?

The 'seven' of the Quran refer to seven variations in the recitation and pronunciation of Arabic words that were revealed at the time of the Quran’s revelation. These variations are called 'Harf' and represent different dialectical pronunciations and spellings that existed in the Arabic language at the time.

Why was the Quran revealed in seven variations?

The Quran was revealed in seven variations to accommodate the different dialects and pronunciations of the Arabic language, making it easier for people from various regions to recite the Quran correctly. These variations also add richness and dimension to the Quran’s meaning.

What are the three main reasons for the existence of these variations?

The three main reasons for the existence of variations are: (1) to facilitate ease of recitation for people from different dialects, (2) to add depth and enrichment to the meaning of certain verses without contradicting their original intent, and (3) to challenge non-believers by showing the consistency and miraculous nature of the Quran despite its variations.

What types of differences can be found among the seven variations of the Quran?

The differences can involve changes in nouns (such as singular vs. plural), grammatical structures (like verb conjugations), syntactical choices (such as the presence or absence of a word), and in some cases, different pronunciations or applications of grammatical rules.

What is a 'Qira'ah' and how does it relate to the seven variations?

A 'Qira'ah' refers to a specific way of reciting the Quran, attributed to a master. Each master selects specific variations of the seven and teaches them to students. The process of selecting from these variations is called 'Qira'ah'.

How are the 'masters' and 'students' of Qira'ah connected?

There are 10 confirmed masters of Qira'ah, each of whom made distinct choices regarding the variations of the Quran's recitation. These masters had two confirmed students each, known as 'Rawi' or narrators, who specialize in particular variations of the Quran.

Can someone make their own choices in reciting the Quran based on these variations?

While one can choose from the existing variations of the Quran, personal choices that deviate from the established variations are not allowed. The variations must be in accordance with the authentic recitations that trace back to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Why are contemporary dialects of Arabic, like Sudanese or Egyptian, not suitable for reciting the Quran?

Contemporary dialects, such as those spoken in Sudan or Egypt, often involve changes in pronunciation that could alter the meaning of words in the Quran. For example, the way certain letters are pronounced in some dialects could lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations, which would not be acceptable in Quranic recitation.

What are some of the resources available for learning about the variations in Quranic recitation?

Some helpful resources include websites like ncquran.com, which compares the variations across different Qira'ahs, and quranfl.com, which offers mus-hafs with variations written out. Additionally, the Bridges Translation app can help with understanding the differences in translations of the Quran.

Is it necessary for beginners to learn all the variations in the Quran?

It is not necessary for beginners to master all the variations. However, it is important to be aware that the Quran has seven variations. Beginners should focus on learning one mode of recitation until they are confident, and then they can enrich their knowledge by learning additional variations.