Tajweed
/təˈwiːd/noun
The set of rules governing the accurate pronunciation and recitation of the Qur’an.
Did you know?Tajweed developed to preserve the Prophet Muhammad’s traditional recitation, including subtle distinctions in Arabic consonants, vowels, length, and nasal resonance.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Arabic
Arabic
ج-و-د (j-w-d)
“A root associated with goodness, excellence, generosity, and superior quality.”
Classical Arabic
Arabic
جَوَّدَ (jawwada)
“To improve, make excellent, or render something skillfully and precisely.”
Medieval Arabic
Arabic
تَجْوِيد (tajwīd)
“Improvement or refinement; specifically, the disciplined refinement of Qur’anic pronunciation and recitation.”
Medieval Islamic scholarship
Arabic
ʿilm al-tajwīd
“The science of tajweed: formal rules for correctly articulating and reciting Qur’anic Arabic.”
20th Century
English
tajweed
“An English loanword for the rules and practice of Qur’anic recitation.”