Mujawwad and Murattal: Understanding the Difference in Quran Recitation Styles
The Holy Quran is recited in melodious rhythmic tones known as Qirat or Qira’at. There are various styles of Quran recitation that have developed over the centuries, reflecting regional preferences and traditions. Two of the most well-known styles are Mujawwad and murattal. While both involve reciting the Quran in a melodic manner, there are some key differences between these recitation styles.
What is Mujawwad Style of Quran Recitation?
Mujawwad is one of the most common styles of Quran recitation. The term Mujawwad comes from the Arabic word “tajweed”, which means to recite the Quran following the proper rules of pronunciation and intonation.
Key Features of Mujawwad Style
Some key features of the Mujawwad style of Quran recitation include:
- Melodic recitation with clear pronunciation of each word and letter.
- Moderate pace of recitation.
- Short pauses between verses.
- Application of the rules of tajweed including proper Makharij (articulation points) and elongated vowels (made).
- Mediated tone that is not too high or too low.
- No repetition of words or elaborate vocal embellishments.
- Completion of full recitation in a defined period.
The Mujawwad style aims to convey the meanings of the Holy Quran in a clear and understandable manner while observing the traditional rules of recitation. It follows the harakat (phonetic symbols for vowels) present in the written Quranic text for proper pronunciation.
History and Development
The Mujawwad method has its origins in the old traditional style of Quran recitation. In the early days, oral transmission of the Quran involved reciting it melodiously while adhering strictly to the tajweed rules.
Over the centuries, reciters improvised and started embellishing the recitation with their own vocal flourishes. To preserve the original style, reformers like Sheikh Mohammed Siddiq El-Minshawi advocated returning to the traditional modalities of reciting the Quran. Thus the Mujawwad style was born.
Today, the Mujawwad method is regarded as one of the most authentic styles of Quran recitation. It is taught in Islamic institutions and madrassas around the world. Popular Egyptian reciters like Sheikh Abdul Basit and Sheikh Minshawi are considered masters of the Mujawwad style.
What is Murattal Style of Quran Recitation?
The Murattal style is another common recitation method that involves prolonged melody and emotional vocalization. The word Murattal comes from the Arabic word “Tarteel” which means to recite the Quran in a measured, rhythmic manner.
Key Features of Murattal Style
Some defining features of the Murattal style include:
- Slow and stretched recitation.
- Prolongation of certain words and letters.
- Added vocal embellishments and trills.
- Full completion takes much longer compared to Mujawwad.
- Highly melodic tone and wide vocal range.
- Increased often abrupt pauses between verses.
- Use of techniques like repeating words, oscillating the voice, etc.
- Aims to extract deeper meaning and invoke emotions.
The Murattal style allows reciters greater freedom to infuse their creative touches into the recitation. The aim is to beautify the recitation and bring out subtleties of meaning and emotion through the melodic vocal delivery.
History and Development
The murattal style of Quran recitation emerged in the early 20th century. Reciters like Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Sudais and Sheikh Maher Al Mueaqly pioneered this style of elongating and embellishing the recitation of the Quran.
This style became very popular, especially in the Middle East, as listening to the Quran being recited in a melodious manner invoked emotions and made the experience more profound. The increased availability of audio recordings in the late 20th century also enabled the widespread propagation of the Murattal style.
While considered non-traditional, this style is appreciated around the Islamic world for its ability to deliver an enhanced spiritual experience through listening to the recitation.
Key Differences Between Mujawwad and Murattal Styles
Though both styles involve melodic recitation of the Holy Quran, there are some notable differences between the Mujawwad and Murattal methods:
Pace and Rhythm
- Mujawwad follows a moderate speed and rhythmic flow in reciting the verses.
- Murattal uses a slower, stretched-out pace with ebbs and flows in rhythm.
Vocalization
- Mujawwad uses a neutral vocal tone without excessive embellishment.
- Murattal employs a wide vocal range and added vocal trills and oscillations.
Adherence to Text
- Mujawwad strictly follows the written text and Tajweed rules.
- Murattal takes creative license to repeat words and phrases or add vocal flourishes.
Overall Delivery
- Mujawwad focuses on clarity in pronouncing the verses.
- Murattal brings out subtleties of meaning through melodic delivery.
Completion Time
- Mujawwad typically completes full recitation faster.
- Murattal takes significantly longer to finish the full recitation.
Origins
- Mujawwad has origins in traditional methods of Quran recitation.
- Murattal is a more contemporary style that emerged in the 20th century.
So in summary, Mujawwad adheres more closely to the authentic traditional style while murattal prioritizes creative embellishment and melody. However, both styles have their own beauty, appeal, and utility for different audiences.
Benefits of Each Style of Quran Recitation
Mujawwad and Murattal offer different benefits based on their approach:
Benefits of Mujawwad Style
- Allows a clearer understanding of meanings through proper enunciation.
- Preserves the traditional rules of recitation i.e. tajweed.
- Offers completeness by finishing full recitation in a defined time.
- Gives an authentic experience of listening to the Quran as originally revealed.
- Easier for newer listeners and non-Arabs to follow.
Benefits of Murattal Style
- Provides a profound, emotionally moving spiritual experience.
- The melody and vocal range invoke deeper feelings and reflection.
- Brings out subtle meanings not evident from just reading the text.
- Repetition aids memorization and retention.
- The beauty of recitation attracts more listeners to the Quran.
Ultimately, the Mujawwad and Murattal styles complement each other in allowing Muslims and others to appreciate the majesty, beauty, and message of the Quran.
Choosing Between Mujawwad and Murattal Styles
When deciding between these two styles of Quran recitation, some factors to consider are:
Purpose of Listening
If the aim is to understand meanings, learn to recite, memorize, etc., Mujawwad may be more suitable. If the purpose is spiritual joy or an enhanced emotional experience, Murattal may be preferred.
Personal Preferences
Some simply find the vocal modulations in Murattal more pleasing and beautiful to listen to. For others, the authentic feel of unembellished Mujawwad appeals more.
Situation and Activity
Mujawwad may be ideal when reciting or listening to the Quran for worship acts like salah. Murattal can provide nice background of listening while relaxing, driving, etc.
Competency in Arabic
Non-Arabs may benefit more from the clear enunciation of Mujawwad to grasp meanings. Those fluent in Arabic can better appreciate the nuances brought out through Murattal.
Introduction to the Quran
For newer Muslims, the accessibility of Mujawwad makes it a good starting point. Murattal can be enjoyed later as their understanding and appreciation of the Quran increases.
There is certainly merit and beauty to be gained from both styles. Muslims are also encouraged to listen to recitations of the Quran in any melodious style that appeals to them spiritually and brings them closer to Allah (SWT).
Conclusion
The Mujawwad and murattal represent two of the most popular styles of melodious Quran recitation. While Mujawwad focuses on traditional rules and clarity, Murattal prioritizes creative embellishment and invokes deeper emotion. Both styles have their own benefits and appeal for allowing Muslims and others to appreciate the magnificence of the Quran through skilled recitation. Whether reciting or listening to the verses, these styles can provide a rewarding and uplifting experience connecting listeners to the Divine message.
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