What are the readings (qira'at) of Quran?
The readings (qira'at) of the Qur'an refer to the various methods of recitation that have been transmitted through different scholarly traditions. Each qira'a can have slight variations in pronunciation, wording, or even grammatical structures, but they maintain the same essential meanings.
There are seven well-known qira'at that are widely recognized:
1. Qira'at of Nafi' - This qira'a is prevalent in North Africa. 2. Qira'at of Ibn Kathir - This reading originates from Mecca. 3. Qira'at of Abu 'Amr - This is another reading from Mecca. 4. Qira'at of Ibn 'Amir - This qira'a is common in Syria. 5. Qira'at of Al-Kisai - This reading is associated with the region of Iraq. 6. Qira'at of Hamzah - This qira'a is also from Iraq. 7. Qira'at of Al-Bazzi - This reading is often taught alongside the others.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ indicated that the Qur'an was revealed in seven different readings. In a narration, it is mentioned: The Qur’an was revealed in seven letters, so recite what is easiest for you of them
Sunan Abu Dawud 8:60. This emphasizes the flexibility in recitation and the accessibility of the Qur'an to different speakers of Arabic.
In practice, the differences in these qira'at can often be seen in the way certain words are pronounced or in the use of particular dialects. The existence of these readings showcases the rich diversity within the tradition of Qur'anic recitation, allowing for a broad engagement with the text.
Sources
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Sunan Abu Dawud 8:60
Sunan Abu Dawud · Book 8, Hadith 60 · Narrated by Umar ibn Al-Khattab
I heard Hisham ibn Hakim ibn Hizam reciting Surah Al-Furqan differently than how the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) had taught me. I nearly rushed to complain but waited until he left. Then I covered myself and brought him to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and said, 'O Messenger of Allah, I heard this man reciting Surah Al-Furqan in a way different from how you taught me.' The Prophet said to him, 'Recite.' He recited it the way I heard him read it. The Prophet said, 'Thus it was revealed.' Then the Prophet said to me, 'Recite.' I did so as the Prophet originally taught me. He said, 'Thus it was revealed.' Then he said, 'The Quran was revealed on seven letters, so recite what is easiest for you of them.' I was informed by 'Az-Zuhri that these letters relate to one matter and do not affect what is lawful or unlawful.
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