Free Online Guide
Learn Tajweed Rules
Master the art of beautiful Quran recitation. This guide covers all essential Tajweed rules with examples you can practice.
Last updated: February 2026
What is Tajweed?
Tajweed (تجويد) comes from the Arabic root meaning "to improve" or "to make better." It is the science of reciting the Quran correctly, giving every letter its right and characteristics.
Learning Tajweed ensures you recite the Quran as Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) recited it, preserving the beauty and meaning of Allah's words.
Did you know? The word "Tajweed" appears in the Quran: "...and recite the Quran with measured recitation (tarteel)." (73:4)
Essential Tajweed Rules
Qalqalah (القلقلة)
Echoing/Bouncing Sound
A slight bouncing sound when pronouncing certain letters with sukoon (no vowel). The letters are: ق ط ب ج د (Qaf, Ta, Ba, Jeem, Dal).
Letters
ق ط ب ج د
Example
In "Al-Falaq" (الفَلَق) - the final ق has qalqalah
Tip: Think of it as a gentle echo, not a harsh stop.
Ghunnah (الغنة)
Nasalization
A nasal sound lasting about 2 counts. Occurs with noon (ن) and meem (م) in certain conditions.
Letters
ن م
Example
In "Inna" (إنَّ) - the doubled noon has ghunnah
Tip: Let the sound resonate through your nose.
Ikhfa (الإخفاء)
Hidden/Concealed
Noon sakinah or tanween is hidden (not fully pronounced) before 15 specific letters, with a nasal sound.
Letters
ت ث ج د ذ ز س ش ص ض ط ظ ف ق ك
Example
In "min sharri" (مِن شَرِّ) - the noon is hidden before sheen
Tip: The noon sound is there but softened.
Idgham (الإدغام)
Merging
Noon sakinah or tanween merges into the following letter. Two types: with ghunnah (ي ن م و) and without ghunnah (ل ر).
Letters
ي ن م و ل ر
Example
In "min rabbihim" (مِن رَّبِّهِم) - noon merges into ra
Tip: The noon disappears completely into the next letter.
Iqlab (الإقلاب)
Conversion
Noon sakinah or tanween changes to a meem sound before the letter Ba (ب), with ghunnah.
Letters
ب
Example
In "min ba'd" (مِن بَعْد) - pronounced as "mim ba'd"
Tip: Convert the noon to meem, keep the ghunnah.
Madd (المد)
Elongation
Stretching vowel sounds. Natural madd is 2 counts, others can be 2-6 counts depending on the type.
Letters
ا و ي
Example
In "Qaal" (قَالَ) - the alif is stretched
Tip: Count in your head: 1-2 for natural, 4-5 for obligatory.
Practice Tajweed
The best way to learn Tajweed is through practice. These short Surahs are perfect for applying the rules above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tajweed mandatory?▼
Basic Tajweed rules that affect meaning are considered obligatory (wajib). Advanced beautification rules are recommended (mustahabb). All Muslims should learn at least the fundamental rules to recite Quran properly.
How long does it take to learn Tajweed?▼
Basic Tajweed rules can be learned in a few weeks with consistent practice. Mastering all rules and their application typically takes 6-12 months of regular study and practice with a qualified teacher.
Can I learn Tajweed online?▼
Yes! While having a teacher is ideal, you can start learning Tajweed online. Use QuranMakkah's audio-sync feature to hear correct pronunciation and practice along. The transliteration helps you identify where rules apply.
Continue Learning
Practice Tajweed with Audio Sync
Listen to professional reciters and follow along with our audio-synced transliteration.
Start with Al-Fatihah