مشہورائمہ حدیث کا نظریہ قراءات کا تحقیقی جائزہ

A Critical Study of the Views of Prominent Hadith Scholars on the Theory of Qirāʾāt

Abstract

The Holy Qur'an is the Divine Word. It is the final source of guidance from the Creator of the universe for all of humankind. Even in terms of its auditory miracle and beauty, it is nothing short of a magnificent blessing. It is the only book in the world whose recitation instills the fear of God, touches the depths of the soul, brings inner peace, and is aesthetically pleasing to the ear. The Qur'an is a unique blend of majesty and perfection. For a Muslim, the Qur'an provides satisfaction and tranquility for all five senses, and contains a priceless treasure of spiritual blessings. The Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ not only taught the meanings and insights of the Qur'an to his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them), but also instructed them in its proper recitation. He specifically blessed four of his Companions with the knowledge of Qur'anic recitation and instructed the rest of the Companions to learn the Qur'an from these four: Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (RA), Salim Mawla Abi Hudhaifah (RA), Mu'adh ibn Jabal (RA), and Ubayy ibn Ka'b (RA).

The seven Ahruf (dialects) of the Qur'an refer to the eloquent dialects of the Arabs in which the Qur'an was revealed. These seven dialects differ from one another, and among them, some were used more extensively in the Qur'an than others.

The science of Qira’at (recitations) is divided into two main categories:

1. Qira’at Sahihah (Authentic Recitations)
2. Qira’at Shadhah (Irregular or Rare Recitations)

Furthermore, under the second classification, Qira’at are divided into:

• Qira’at Sab‘ah (The Seven Recitations)
• Qira’at Thalathah (The Three Additional Recitations)

There is a slight difference of opinion among scholars and Qurra’ (reciters) regarding the extent and classification of these categories. While most Qurra’ accept the above classification, some scholars believe that only the Seven Recitations (Qira’at Sab‘ah) are Mutawatir (mass-transmitted). They accept the remaining three as authentic, but not Mutawatir.