Understanding the Harakat (Vowel Marks) in Tajwid: Mastering the Arabic Alphabet with Fathah, Kasrah, Dhammah, Tanwin, Sukun, and Tasydid

 

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In the realm of Tajwid (the rules of Quranic recitation), there are several forms of Harakat (vowel marks) known for their significance in guiding proper pronunciation. These Harakat are crucial for indicating the vowel sounds in Arabic text. Let's explore these Harakat and their functions:

1. Fathah (ـَ) - Representing the short vowel "a," Fathah marks a basic sound level. It is used to indicate short vowels on letters that carry a vowel. Examples include: 

   - a (اَ), ba (بَ), ta (تَ), and tsa (ثَ).

2. Kasrah (ـِ) - Pronounced as "i," Kasrah denotes the short vowel "i." Examples include: 

   - ji (جِ), hi (حِ), khi (خِ), di (دِ).

3. Dhammah (ـُ) - Representing the short vowel "u," Dhammah is used to mark the basic "u" sound. Examples include: 

   - dzu (ذُ), ru (رُ), zu (زُ), su (سُ).

4. Tanwin - Tanwin represents the sounds "an," "in," or "un" and is used as a sign for a vowel on non-voweled letters. There are three types of Tanwin: 

   - Fathatain (ـً) or Tanwin Fathah, 

   - Kasratain (ـٍ) or Tanwin Kasrah, and 

   - Dhammatain (ـٌ) or Tanwin Dhammah.

   For Fathatain (Tanwin Fathah), an alif is added after the letter. However, there are exceptions for the letters hamzah (ء) and ta' makfulah or marbuthah (ة).

5. Sukun (ـْ) - Sukun indicates the absence of a vowel, making the letter silent. It doesn't produce any sound and represents the "killing" of the vowel on the hijaiyah letter. Example: 

   - almautu (الْمَوْتُ).

6. Tasydid or Syiddah (ـّ) - Tasydid signifies a doubled or heavy sound in a letter, creating a double consonant. Examples include: 

   - anna (اَ نَّ), madda (مَدَّ).

By understanding and correctly applying these Harakat, readers can enhance their proficiency in Arabic pronunciation and ultimately excel in the art of Quranic recitation. Practice and familiarity with these vowel marks are essential for accurate and melodious Quranic reading.