Makharij al-huruf are the points of articulation from which the Arabic letters come out. If you want to recite the Quran correctly and fluently, learning them is one of the first and most important steps. This article reviews the five general points and the letters of each, simply.
What are the makharij and why do they matter?
Many recitation mistakes come from a wrong articulation point, such as confusing ح with ه, or ص with س. God says: “And recite the Quran with measured recitation” (Al-Muzzammil: 4). Tartil means pronouncing each letter from its proper point.
The five general points
1. Al-Jawf (the empty space of the mouth and throat)
The three letters of prolongation, an alif after a fatha, a waw after a damma and a ya after a kasra, come from the open space of the mouth and throat.
2. The throat
Six letters: ء and ه from the deepest part, ع and ح from the middle, and غ and خ from the upper part.
3. The tongue
Most letters come from the tongue, including ق ك ج ش ي ض ل ن ر ت د ط ث ذ ظ ز س ص. Each has a specific place on the tongue and the palate.
4. The lips
The letter ف comes from the inner lower lip and the edge of the upper front teeth; ب, م and و come from the two lips.
5. The nasal passage (khayshum)
The sound of ghunnah, linked to a doubled noon or meem and to some rules of noon sakinah.
How to learn
- Practice each letter separately with fatha, kasra and damma.
- Read similar letters side by side, such as ث س ص and ذ ز ظ.
- Listen to a skilled reciter and imitate.
- After the makharij, learn Noon Sakinah and Tanween Rules.
- For systematic learning with a teacher, see the Quranic Deputyship of the Complex.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many makharij are there?
Five general points: al-jawf, throat, tongue, lips and nasal passage. Some reciters divide them into 17 detailed points.
Why learn the makharij?
So that similar letters are pronounced correctly and recitation mistakes are avoided. They are the foundation of tartil.
What is the best way to learn them?
Daily practice, listening to a skilled reciter and learning with a knowledgeable teacher.
Conclusion
The makharij are the foundation of tajweed. With daily practice, listening to a skilled reciter and a teacher’s guidance, your recitation becomes more precise and beautiful.