Al-Waqf (the stop) الوقف
When people of any language speak, there are some places where they pause and some places where they do not break their words, depending on the meaning they wish to convey. The style of the Quran is such that there are also places where one should either pause or continue reading.
The Arabic word “Waqf” literally means “stop”. In terms of recitation of the Quran it refers to the breaking of the voice for a period while the reciter stops to take a breath with the intention of continuing the recitation. In order to prevent mistakes in recitation, various abbreviated signs are provided in the Quran for those who are not familiar with the Quranic sciences and the Arabic language. It is necessary to follow all these signs as strictly as possible in order to prevent mistakes in recitation. The signs, listed and explained below, appear in the Quran slightly smaller and higher than the rest of the text. See the reverse side for a sample page from the Quran.
You should also know where I am supposed to stop;
- If the last letter of the verse has one zabar, zair or paish or double of these harkats, then you read this letter sakin.
For Example,
يَعْلمُونَ، منَ الجِنّ، أبصَارُ، عَظیْمٌ، علِيمٌ
If you stop on these words, then you will pronounce this letter sakin.
- If there are double signs from above mention. Then pronounce this with single Harkat mention above
رَّحيمًا، غفورًا
When you stop on then will pronounce single zabar.
- Where you find the round “Taa Marbuta (ة)” when you waqaf on this then it will be exchanged with “Haa (ه)”
For example, when you will waqf on
خيرَاُمة
Then this will be changed with “Haa (ه)”
