The Prophet's (PBUH) and the Companions’ Approach to Differences in Qur’anic Recitation

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Ph.D. Graduate in Qur’anic Sciences and Hadith, Tarbiat Modares University, Email: agahadi@yahoo.com

Abstract

Objective: Variations in the recitation of the Qurʾān were already present during the lifetime of the Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him), as evidenced by reports in Sunni sources. This study aims to examine how the Prophet and his Companions dealt with such differences, in order to shed light on aspects of the Prophetic practice (sīra) and Qurʾānic history, and to provide contemporary Muslims with guidance on addressing recitational differences today.
Method: The research adopts a descriptive–analytical approach, based on library resources. First, reports concerning differences in Qurʾānic recitation during the Prophet’s lifetime were collected from authoritative Sunni ḥadīth and Qurʾānic historiographical sources. These reports were then analyzed using historical methods and reliable Qurʾānic sources, with particular attention to the causes of such differences and the Prophet’s responses to them.
Results: The findings indicate that recitational differences in the Prophet’s era were natural and unavoidable. Most disputes among the Companions were resolved amicably, but in more serious cases, they turned directly to the Prophet. The Prophet typically affirmed both readings, urging the Companions to avoid unnecessary disputes and focus on recitation. In rare cases—such as disagreement over the number of verses in Sūrat al-Aḥqāf—the Prophet expressed anger, likely due to the triviality of the issue and the Companions’ preoccupation with minor differences. Furthermore, the Companions usually referred first to Qurʾān teachers like Ibn Masʿūd, Ubayy ibn Kaʿb, and Zayd ibn Thābit, turning to the Prophet only when disagreements persisted, which reflects the Prophet’s oversight of Qurʾānic instruction.
Conclusions: Qurʾānic recitational differences during the Prophet’s lifetime were natural, and his approach was to prevent such differences from becoming a cause of division. The Prophet only expressed displeasure at disputes over minor details, while generally affirming multiple recitations and encouraging unity through the practice of recitation. This Prophetic model provides a constructive framework for Muslims today in addressing recitational differences and avoiding unnecessary conflict.

Keywords

References

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  • Receive Date: 08 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 04 April 2025
  • Accept Date: 26 April 2025

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