When learning to recite the Qur’an with beauty and precision, one of the first foundations you encounter is Sifaat al‑Huruf ,the characteristics of Arabic letters. Among these characteristics, two of the most influential are Al‑Jahr and Al‑Hams.
These two qualities determine how your breath, voice, and articulation interact when reciting the Qur’an.
Meaning of Al-Jahr and Al-Hams in Tajweed
What Is Al‑Jahr (الجهر)?
Al‑Jahr refers to voiced, strong letters.
When you pronounce a letter of Al‑Jahr:
- Your vocal cords vibrate
- Your breath is blocked from flowing freely
- The sound emerges with strength and clarity
These letters include many of the commonly used Arabic sounds such as:
ب، ج، د، ر، ز، ض، ظ، غ، ق and others.
- Definition: Al-Jahr refers to the controlled, restricted breath flow when pronouncing certain Arabic letters.
- Application: When a letter has Al-Jahr, you pronounce it with strength at its articulation point. The breath does not flow freely during its pronunciation.
- Examples of Al-Jahr Letters:
- Most Arabic letters fall into this category, except for the specific Al-Hams letters (which we’ll discuss next).
- For example, letters like ب (ba), ج (jeem), and د (dal) exhibit Al-Jahr characteristics.
Why Are Al‑Jahr and Al‑Hams So Important?
These two characteristics shape the identity of each letter. When you master them, you gain:
- Clearer pronunciation
- Stronger articulation
- More accurate Tajweed
- A recitation closer to the way the Qur’an was revealed
If you’re beginning your Tajweed journey, start here: Tajweed course
What Is Al‑Hams (الهمس)?
Al‑Hams (The Whisper) refers to soft, whispered letters.
When you pronounce a letter of Al‑Hams:
- Your breath flows easily
- The sound feels light and airy
- There is little or no vibration in the vocal cords
The ten letters of Al‑Hams are found in the famous phrase:
فحثه شخص سكت
- Definition: Al-Hams involves the flow of breath when pronouncing certain Arabic letters.
- Application: When a letter has Al-Hams, you pronounce it with a running breath due to weakness in its origin. This weakens the reliance on the articulation point.
- Examples of Al-Hams Letters:
- The group of ten letters known as Al-Hams letters includes: أ (alif), ح (ha), خ (kha), ع (ain), غ (ghain), ح (ha), ص (sad), ض (dad), ط (ta), and ق (qaf).
- Notably, the letter ف (fa) is part of this group. If pronounced like the English “f,” it won’t have the necessary air flow. Adjusting the placement of the front teeth allows proper airflow for the Arabic ف (fa) sound.
- Some letters in this group also exhibit imprisonment of sound, which we’ll discuss in the next lesson.
How to Practice Al‑Jahr and Al‑Hams Effectively
Here are simple, practical steps to build confidence:
- Listen to expert reciters and observe how they control breath
- Practice minimal pairs (one voiced, one whispered)
- Recite short verses focusing on breath flow
- Get feedback from a qualified teacher
For personalized guidance, explore:
Live one‑on‑one Quran classes at quranbycall.com
Final Thoughts
Mastering Al-Jahr and Al-Hams is a foundational step toward beautiful and accurate Quran recitation. These characteristics may seem simple, but they influence every verse you recite. With consistent practice and the right guidance, you’ll notice a remarkable improvement in clarity, fluency, and confidence.
Remember, understanding Al-Jahr and Al-Hams is crucial for precise Quranic recitation. Practicing these characteristics helps maintain the correct pronunciation and spiritual connection with the Quran