The science of Tajweed is considered one of the most honorable Islamic sciences due to its direct connection to the words of God Almighty. In linguistics, Tajweed means improvement, and in terminology, it means giving each letter its due and its rights regarding its articulation points (Makharij) and characteristics (Sifat).
Why do we learn Tajweed?
- Guarding the tongue against errors: The science aims to prevent the tongue from making “Lahn” (mistakes) during recitation, whether it is a clear Lahn that alters the meaning or a hidden Lahn that detracts from the beauty of recitation.
- Compliance with divine command: The Almighty said: “And recite the Qur’an with measured recitation” (Surah Al-Muzzammil, 4), and proper recitation is only achieved by knowing the articulation points and rules.
- Attaining the reward of correct reading: Reading the Quran with its proper rules contributes to deep contemplation (Tadabbur) and emulating our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in reciting the Quran.
The ruling on Tajweed: Practicing it is a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah) for the nation in terms of precise theoretical knowledge, and an individual obligation (Fard Ayn) for every reader of the Quran in terms of the essential practical performance that establishes the letters and prevents distortion of meanings.