Idhaar (إظهار) – To Make Clear
Introduction
Idhaar, which means “to make clear” or “to manifest,” is one of the essential rules in tajweed related to Noon Sakinah (ن) and Tanween (ـً ـٍ ـٌ). This rule is applied when these are followed by any of the six throat letters, resulting in a clear pronunciation without any merging or hiding of the noon sound.
The Throat Letters
The six throat letters, also known as huroof al-halq (حروف الحلق), are:
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| Arabic Letter | Transliteration | English Approximation |
|---|---|---|
| ء | Hamzah | Glottal stop |
| هـ | Haa | H |
| ع | ‘Ayn | No English equivalent |
| ح | Haa | Heavy H |
| غ | Ghayn | Gargled G |
| خ | Khaa | Guttural KH |
Throat Diagram
This diagram illustrates the points of articulation for the throat letters in the human vocal tract.
Application of Idhaar
When Noon Sakinah (ن) or Tanween (ـً ـٍ ـٌ) is followed by any of these six letters, the noon sound is pronounced clearly and distinctly, without any merging or nasalization.
Examples with Noon Sakinah
| Arabic | Transliteration | Meaning | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
مَنْ آمَنَ |
man aamana | Who believed | |
مِنْ خَيْرٍ |
min khayrin | Of good |
Examples with Tanween
| Arabic | Transliteration | Meaning | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ |
‘aleemun hakeemun | All-Knowing, All-Wise | |
غَفُورٌ حَلِيمٌ |
ghafoorun haleemun | Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing |
Practical Application
To practice the rule of Idhaar, try reciting the following Quranic verses, paying close attention to the clear pronunciation of Noon Sakinah and Tanween when followed by throat letters:
وَالْعَصْرِ ﴿١﴾ إِنَّ الْإِنسَانَ لَفِي خُسْرٍ ﴿٢﴾
Transliteration: Wal-‘asr, innal insaana lafee khusr
Meaning: By the time, indeed, mankind is in loss
Note: Pay attention to the clear pronunciation of tanween in “khusr” (خُسْرٍ) before the throat letter ء in the next verse.
قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ الْفَلَقِ ﴿١﴾ مِن شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ ﴿٢﴾
Transliteration: Qul a’oodhu birobbil falaq, min sharri maa khalaq
Meaning: Say, “I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak, from the evil of that which He created”
Note: Observe the clear pronunciation of noon sakinah in “min” (مِنْ) before the throat letter خ in “khalaqa” (خَلَقَ).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Merging the noon sound with the throat letter (this would be incorrect application of Idghaam)
- Adding a nasal sound (ghunnah) to the noon (this would be incorrect application of Ikhfaa)
- Not pronouncing the noon clearly enough, leading to unclear recitation
Tips for Mastering Idhaar
- Practice pronouncing each throat letter individually to familiarize yourself with their sounds.
- Listen carefully to proficient Quran reciters and pay attention to how they apply Idhaar.
- Record yourself reciting verses with Idhaar and compare with expert recitations.
- Practice regularly, focusing on the clear articulation of the noon sound before throat letters.
Conclusion
Mastering the rule of Idhaar is crucial for proper Quranic recitation. It ensures the clear pronunciation of Noon Sakinah and Tanween before throat letters, preserving the distinct sounds and meanings in the Quranic text. Regular practice and attentive listening will help you apply this rule correctly, enhancing the beauty and accuracy of your recitation.