The miracle of phonetics in the Quran

Author: Zahoor Ahmad )Danish(

Karachi Pakistan

Abstract

Qur'an Majid is not only a divine book but also an extraordinary phenomenon from the perspective of phonetics. This research explores the phonological structure of the Qur'an, the articulation of Arabic phonemes, and the scientific foundations of Tajweed (rules of Qur'anic recitation). The study reveals that Tajweed is not merely a traditional set of religious rules, but an auditory system grounded in phonetic science with profound effects on human consciousness, neurological processes, and emotions. Qur'anic recitation is also presented as a form of spiritual phonotherapy that aligns with neuroscientific principles.

Keywords

Qur'an, Phonetics, Tajweed, Linguistic Miracle, Neural Impact, Articulatory Science

Introduction

The recitation of the Qur'an has a unique emotional and spiritual impact, recognized universally by believers and non-believers alike. This impact is not only rooted in the meaning of the text but also in its auditory arrangement, phonetic precision, and the unique style of recitation known as Tajweed. Each phoneme in Arabic has a designated articulation point (makhraj), and the proper application of these points plays a vital role in preserving both the message and the spiritual impact of the Qur'an.

Literature Review

Classical scholars like Ibn Jinni in *Al-Khasa'is* explored the phonetic beauty of the Arabic language. Ibn Al-Jazari in *Al-Nashr fi al-Qira’at al-‘Ashr* provided a comprehensive system of Tajweed. Modern scholars like Dr. Fazl Al-Samarrai examined the linguistic style and sound pattern of the Qur'an in depth. Western linguists such as Daniel Jones and Peter Ladefoged discussed articulatory phonetics, which align surprisingly well with Qur'anic recitation patterns.

Methodology

This is an interdisciplinary and analytical study that combines phonetics, Qur'anic exegesis, classical Tajweed sciences, and neuroscience. Case study analysis of specific Qur'anic passages (e.g., Surah Ar-Rahman, Surah Al-Zalzalah) is used to demonstrate the correlation between phonetic patterns and their emotional or neurological effects.

Findings and Analysis

- Qur'anic repetition (e.g., "Fabi ayyi ala'i rabbikuma tukaththiban") induces rhythm and cognitive resonance.
- EEG/fMRI studies indicate increased alpha and theta waves during Qur'anic recitation, suggesting deep relaxation.
- Tajweed features like qalqala (bounce), ghunna (nasalization), and idghaam (assimilation) are shown to affect breathing patterns and auditory harmonics.
- Articulatory phonetics of Arabic letters correspond directly with vocal tract positioning in modern phonetic models.

Conclusion

The study concludes that the phonetic system of the Qur'an is divinely aligned with scientific principles. Tajweed is not merely ritualistic; it is an audible science that enhances comprehension, memorization, and emotional connection. Qur'anic phonetics thus represents both spiritual healing and linguistic perfection.

References (APA Style)

1.      Al-Jazari, M. (1998). Al-Nashr fi al-Qira’at al-‘Ashr. Dar Al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah.

2.      Al-Jazari, M. (2002). Al-Tamhid fi ‘Ilm al-Tajwid. Cairo: Dar Al-Salam.

3.      Ibn Jinni, A. (1952). Al-Khasa’is. Edited by Muhammad Ali Al-Najjar. Cairo.

4.      Al-Samarrai, F. S. (2005). Min Asrar al-Bayan al-Qur’ani. Dar Ibn Kathir.

5.      Jones, D. (1972). An Outline of English Phonetics. Cambridge University Press.

6.      Ladefoged, P. (2014). A Course in Phonetics (7th ed.). Cengage Learning.

7.      Mahjoob, S., et al. (2016). EEG-based analysis of listening to Holy Quran recitation. Journal of Religion and Health, Springer.

8.      The Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-Isra, 17:82