Al-Jawf (the oral cavity) is considered a unique articulation point in Tajweed. It is among the most significant points connected to the beauty of recitation, as it allows for elongation and melody.

For this reason, scholars of Tajweed have given it special attention, placing it at the very beginning of the chapter on articulation points. In the following lines, we will explore this Makhraj in detail, highlighting its features and its vital role in enhancing Qur’anic recitation.

Al-Jawf is one of the five major articulation areas in the Arabic language. To fully grasp the function of Al-Jawf, we need to look at the overall division of articulation points in Tajweed. 

Divisions of Al Makharij in Tajweed:

Al-Makharij (المخارج) is an Arabic term that refers to the articulation points of letters, the position from which letters` sound is pronounced. These articulation points are divided into two main categories:

1. Al-Makharij Al-Muḥaqqaqah (المخارج المحققة):

Al-Makharij Al-Muḥaqqaqah (المخارج المحققة) means exact or definite articulation points from which sounds are produced from precise locations of the Speech apparatus, including three tangible Speech organs like tongue, Lips, and Throat. From these clear physical places, we have:

• Throat letters (الحروف الحلقية) that are produced from different levels of the throat, producing 3 definite special articulation letters.
• Lip letters (حروف الشفتين) that are articulated by the lips, such as ( ب -م – ف)
• Tongue letters that are produced from the back or different parts of the tongue, along with different parts of the mouth, you can practice more tajweed tongue letters in our online Quran classes for adults

2. Al-Makharij Al-Muqaddarah (المخارج المقدرة)

This type of articulation point in Tajweed refers to indefinite articulation points that do not depend on a clear physical part of the mouth, lips, or throat.

The sounds are produced continuously without a complete stop, except when exhalation ends. From this instance, it is called (مقدر), which means estimated, since you can not recognize its specific location. 

This type encompasses the nasal cavity (Al-Khayshoom) is the place of articulation for the sound of Ghunnah (nasalization)  of Meem and Noon, and Al jawf.

What is Al-Jawf?

Al Jawf means, in the Arabic literature, the void or the empty hollow space. In Tajweed terminology, it refers to the inner open cavity starting from the vocal cords towards the mouth, forming the wide articulation point for vowels (ا – و – ي). The sound of these letters is continuous without obstruction, flowing freely from the mouth.

Names of Al Jawf Letters:

Al Jawf letters have 3 names; each name indicates their characteristics. Including:

1. Al Hurouf Al Madyyia الحروف المدية

The letters of Al-Jawf are also called (Al Hurouf Al Madyyia الحروف المدية), which means elongated letters. Their sound is elongated according to Madd’s rules. 

2. Al Hurouf Al Jawfiyyah الحروف الجوفية:

They are also called Al-Huroof Al-Jawfiyyah الحروف الجوفية(the cavity letters), relative to their articulation point (Jawf).

3. Al Hurouf Al Hawaa’iyyah الحروف الهوائية

 Al-Huroof Al-Hawaa’iyyah الحروف الهوائية (the air-flowing letters), since their sounds are associated with air flow during exhalation. 

Read Also: Lahn In Tajweed With Examples – Lahn Khafi And Jali

Al Jawf Letters:

Generally, we have 3 letters articulated from Al Jawf, they are collected in the Arabic word نُوحِيها and attached to them are Harakat al Hurouf (fatḥah, ḍammah, and kasrah), which are considered to originate from the same general cavity, as short vowels corresponding to the long Madd letters. 

1. Alif (ا)

When Alif (ا) is sākinah and preceded by a letter with a fatḥah. To pronounce this letter correctly, start with the movement of the vocal cords while the tongue is in a resting position and the mouth is open. For example, see this table:

you can practice pronouncing as mentioned together in our Quran Recitation course.

2. Waw(و)

 When Wāw (و) is sākinah and preceded by a letter with a ḍammah. This letter is articulated firstly by bringing the lips forward while raising the back of the tongue, then vibrating the vocal cords. See the following table:

3. Ya(ي)

When Ya(ي) is sākinah and preceded by a letter with a Kasra. Ya(ي  The vocal cords vibrate at the back of the throat, the back of the tongue rises, and the lower jaw lowers. The following 3 words in the table are repeated a lot. 

Learn more in our Quranic Arabic reading course to learn how to read all Quranic words.

Examples of Al-Jawf Letters in the Quran:

Now, it is your turn. Try to find Al Jawf letters in the following surah:

Try more examples in our Quran test and practice course. When you practice many times, you will never forget.

Read Also: Nabr In Tajweed

Practice Al Jawf Tajweed with Our Native Teachers Online

 Enroll in our Quran Classes for Beginners and practice Al Jawf and all other Makharij with professional Quranic recitation teachers at home. Our course focuses on practical with theoretical aspects of Tajweed.

At Quranica, you can recite in every session from the comfort of your home, without the hassle of finding a suitable time or place. You can start from scratch or from the last Tajweed rule you learnt. You will find many learning partners and keep your motivated spirit.

Knowledge only matters when put into practice.  So why not start practicing now, until reciting every letter of the Quran comes to you naturally?

 Our courses include:

• Arabic-related courses: whether you are a beginner or mid-level. You can choose your level and start from it. 
• Memorization (Hifz) Programs: Structured memorization plans that guide students through the Quran at their own pace, supported by experienced instructors.
• Tajweed Courses: Well-designed courses help Muslims to reach the right recitation of the Quran correctly. 
• Islamic Studies Courses: These courses help you know more about Islam and Tafsir. This is important since you need to understand the Quran and reflect on your daily life.

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Conclusion: 

The Role of Al-Jawf Tajweed in Beautifying Quranic Recitation is sensed from the first time you pronounce them in the right way. 

Al Jawf is the entire space of the mouth and the throat. It produces 3 letters ا , و , and ي. They all share the same articulation point and the same sifat.

Daily practice of these letters is essential before moving on to learning the different types of Madd. Mastering Al-Jawf letters lays a strong foundation for your Tajweed journey.