Qāriʾ

Qāriʾ (قارى‎)

Definition and Significance

Qāriʾ (قارى‎), plural: Qurrāʾ (قُرّاء), is an Arabic term that denotes “a reader” or “reciter.” Specifically, it refers to someone who reads the Qur’an correctly and is proficient in the science of Tajwīd (تجويد), the principles and rules governing the pronunciation of Qur’anic recitation. A Qāriʾ’s role in the Islamic community is pivotal, as they ensure that the Qur’an is recited as precisely as possible, preserving its divine essence and original form.

Etymology and Translations

• Etymology: The term Qāriʾ (قارى‎) is derived from the Arabic root “q-r-’” (ق ر أ), which means “to read” or “to recite.”
• Arabic: قاري‎ (Qāriʾ)
• Turkish: Kâri

The Seven Celebrated Qurrāʾ

In Islamic tradition, there are seven particularly renowned Qurrāʾ, known as al-Qurrāʾu ʾs-Sabʿah (القراء السبعة), or “the seven readers.” Their authoritative methods of reciting the Qur’an have been preserved throughout Islamic history. These individuals and their contributions include:

1. Imām Ibn Kathīr:

   • Died: Makkah, A.H. 120
   • Known for his precise recitation and interpretation of the Qur’an.

2. Imām ʿĀsim of al-Kūfah:

   • Learned from ʿAbdu ʾr-Raḥmān as-Salāmī, a student of Caliphs ʿUthmān and ʿAli.
   • Died: Al-Kūfah, A.H. 127

3. Imām Abū ʿUmr:

   • Born: Makkah, A.H. 70
   • Died: Al-Kūfah, A.H. 154
   • Known for transmitting the statement regarding the rectification of linguistic faults in the Qur’an by the Arabs of the desert, emphasizing the importance of proper pronunciation.

4. Imām Ḥamzah of al-Kūfah:

   • Born: A.H. 80
   • Died: A.H. 156

5. Imām al-Kisāʾī:

   • Known for his expertise in recitation but not in poetry.
   • Died: Tūs, around A.H. 182

6. Imām Nāfiʿ:

   • A native of al-Madīnah.
   • Died: A.H. 169

7. Imām Ibn ʿĀmir:

   • A native of Syria, but his exact date of death is uncertain.

Importance of Tajwīd

Tajwīd (تجويد) refers to the set of rules governing the pronunciation during recitation of the Qur’an. Mastery of Tajwīd ensures that the recitation is melodious and phonetically precise, preserving the original language and meaning as it was revealed. The science of Tajwīd includes guidelines on articulation, intonation, and cadence, making the role of the Qāriʾ essential for the audible preservation of the Qur’anic text.

Recommended Books for Further Study

• “The History of the Qurʾanic Text: From Revelation to Compilation” by Muhammad Mustafa Al-Azami
• “Tajweed Rules of the Quran Part 1” by Kareema Czerepinski
• “Ulum Al-Quran: An Introduction to the Sciences of the Quran” by Ahmad von Denffer

Takeaways

• Qāriʾ represents an individual expert in the Qur’anic recitation and the science of Tajwīd.
• The role of a Qāriʾ is crucial for maintaining the purity and accuracy of Qur’anic recitation.
• The seven celebrated Qurrāʾ have left an indelible mark on Islamic tradition and Qur’anic sciences.

Conclusion

The concept of Qāriʾ reaffirms the significance of meticulous recitation in Islam, ensuring that the divine words of the Qur’an are conveyed precisely. The historic contributions made by the seven celebrated Qurrāʾ continue to inform contemporary practices, underscoring the depth and rigor inherent in Qur’anic studies.