An Analysis of Meaning-Oriented Qur’anic Recitation in the Conduct of the Prophet and the Ahl al-Bayt (AS)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Corresponding Author, Ph.D. Candidate in Comparative Interpretation of the Holy Quran, University of Sciences and Education of the Holy Quran, Qom, Iran,

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Exegesis, Higher Education Complex for Quran and Hadith, Al-Mustafa International University, Qom, Iran

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to identify and analyze the characteristics of meaning-oriented recitation (tilāwah maʿnā-maḥwar) of the Noble Qur’an in the verbal and practical conduct (sīrah) of the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (SAWW), and the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). The central research question explores which features distinguished the recitation of the Infallibles (AS) such that it profoundly influenced listeners, and how contemporary reciters may benefit from this model to enhance the spiritual and communicative quality of their recitation.
Method: The research adopts a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach based on authoritative library sources, including classical exegetical, ḥadīth, and historical works from both Sunni and Shiʿi traditions. Relevant narrations concerning the Qur’anic recitation of the Infallibles (AS) were systematically collected and thematically analyzed. The extracted data were categorized into conceptual dimensions and examined through a structured analytical framework.
Findings: The findings demonstrate that the meaning-oriented recitation of the Infallibles (AS) may be analyzed within three principal dimensions:
Spiritual-Devotional Dimension: including sincerity of intention, seeking refuge (istiʿādhah), outward and inward purity, contemplation (tadabbur), humility (khushūʿ), and reverential awe.
Structural-Technical Dimension (Geometry of Recitation):
Technical aspects: beautiful voice, appropriate melody and modulation, controlled vocal ornamentation (tarjīʿ), sorrowful tone, measured recitation (tartīl), reflective pauses, observance of tajwīd and eloquence, and recitation according to authentic Arabic melodic modes.
Content-structural aspects: adherence to the widely accepted canonical reading and avoidance of anomalous recitations.
Impact-Oriented Dimension: repetition of verses for deeper internalization, contextual selection of verses appropriate to time and place, passionate and heartfelt delivery, and effective modulation of vocal intensity to convey meaning.
Conclusion: The sīrah of the Prophet (SAWW) and the Ahl al-Bayt (AS) presents a comprehensive paradigm of meaning-centered recitation, integrating spirituality, authentic recitational technique, and communicative effectiveness. Contemporary reciters can elevate their performance by simultaneously attending to these three dimensions, thereby transforming recitation into a spiritually resonant and socially impactful act aligned with divine guidance.

Keywords


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