In the realm of Arabic phonetics and Tajweed, where precision in pronunciation is paramount, we encounter the letter ‘ر‘ (Ra) with a distinctive configuration: sukoon (a diacritic indicating a complete lack of vowel sound) preceded by a Fatha diacritic.

Let’s explore the intricacies of this phonetic scenario:

Sukoon on ‘ر‘ (Ra): When ‘ر‘ (Ra) carries a sukoon, it signifies that the letter is pronounced without any additional vowel sound. This sukoon serves as a fundamental component of Arabic phonetics, ensuring the letter is articulated precisely.

Preceding Fatha: The presence of a Fatha diacritic—a small slanted line above the letter that denotes a short ‘a’ vowel sound—before the sukoon on ‘ر‘ introduces a unique phonetic characteristic. This ‘a’ vowel sound affects the transition from the preceding letter to ‘ر,’ contributing to the word’s phonetic flow.

Understanding the interplay between sukoon and Fatha with ‘ر‘ is pivotal for accurate Arabic pronunciation and the mastery of Tajweed rules. This scenario exemplifies the nuanced nature of the Arabic language, where vowel placement and articulation are finely tuned.

By delving into these intricacies, Arabic learners and Quran reciters can elevate their understanding of Arabic phonology and enhance their ability to recite Arabic texts with precision and eloquence. It is within these subtleties that the beauty and richness of Arabic pronunciation come to life, ultimately enhancing the experience of Quranic recitation and the appreciation of the Arabic language.

Example:

وَأَرْسَلَ عَلَيْهِمْ طَيْرًا أَبَابِيلَ

And He sent against them birds in flocks, (105:3)

Within the realm of Tajweed, the science of precise Quranic recitation, intricate rules shape the pronunciation of Arabic letters. One such rule involves the letter ‘ر’ (Ra) when it carries sukoon (a diacritic indicating a complete lack of vowel sound) and is situated within the same word as an original kasra (short ‘i’ vowel) preceding it, followed by an emphatic letter.

Let’s explore this rule in depth:

Sukoon on ‘ر’ (Ra): The presence of sukoon on ‘ر’ signifies that the letter is pronounced without any additional vowel sound. This diacritic ensures the precise articulation of ‘ر.’

Original Kasra (Short ‘i’ Vowel): An original kasra, indicated by a slanted line beneath the letter, appears just before the sukoon on ‘ر.’ This kasra represents a short ‘i’ vowel sound, which is fundamental in Arabic phonetics.

Emphatic Letters: Following the sukoon on ‘ر,’ you encounter emphatic letters, which are characterized by their unique articulation and phonetic properties. These emphatic letters include ظ (Dhāl), خ (Kha), ص (Ṣād), ض (Dāl), غ (Ghain), ط (Ṭā), and ق (Qāf). Emphatic letters are pronounced with added emphasis and are an integral part of Arabic pronunciation.

Within the Holy Quran, there are specific instances where this rule comes into play, totaling five examples. Each example provides an opportunity to demonstrate the precision and beauty of Tajweed, ensuring that the Quran is recited with the utmost reverence and respect for its linguistic and phonetic nuances.

By exploring these intricacies, Quranic learners and reciters can deepen their understanding of the Quran’s recitation rules, allowing them to convey the divine message with accuracy and eloquence. Tajweed, with its delicate rules, adds to the timeless beauty and resonance of the Quran, captivating the hearts and minds of readers and listeners alike.

وَلَوْ نَزَّلْنَا عَلَيْكَ كِتَابًا فِي قِرْطَاسٍ

And even if We had sent down to you, [O Muhammad], a written scripture on a page (6:7)

وَإِرْصَادًا لِّمَنْ حَارَبَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ مِن قَبْلُ

and as a station for whoever had warred against Allah and His Messenger before. (9:107)

فَلَوْلَا نَفَرَ مِن كُلِّ فِرْقَةٍ مِّنْهُمْ طَائِفَةٌ لِّيَتَفَقَّهُوا فِي الدِّينِ

For there should separate from every division of them a group [remaining] to obtain understanding in the religion (9:122)

إِنَّ جَهَنَّمَ كَانَتْ مِرْصَادًا 

Indeed, Hell has been lying in wait (78:21)

إِنَّ رَبَّكَ لَبِالْمِرْصَادِ 

Indeed, your Lord is in observation. (89:14)