Why Al-Sousi’s Recitation Is One of the Most Beautiful Quranic Readings 📖✨
The Hidden Gem of Quranic Recitations
Imagine hearing the Quran in a melody so distinct, so captivating, that it instantly touches your soul. Across the centuries, the Ten Quranic Readings have preserved the divine rhythm of the Quran, each carrying its own elegance and authenticity. Among these, Al-Sousi’s Recitation from Abu Amr stands out as a mesmerizing tradition passed down through generations. If you’ve never explored the depth of this unique recitation, this article will open the doors to a profound spiritual experience. Read on, and you’ll never hear the Quran the same way again! 🚀
Why Al-Sousi’s Recitation Is One of the Most Beautiful Quranic Readings
Understanding the Ten Quranic Readings
The Ten Quranic Readings are variations in pronunciation, elongation, and articulation, all transmitted directly from the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through a meticulous oral tradition. These readings are not different versions of the Quran but diverse ways to recite the same divine text, enriching the beauty and depth of its delivery.
The Ten Quranic Readings include:
- Nafi’ Al-Madani
- Ibn Kathir Al-Makki
- Abu Amr Al-Basri
- Ibn Aamir Ash-Shami
- Aasim Al-Kufi
- Hamzah Al-Kufi
- Al-Kisai Al-Kufi
- Khalaf Al-Bazzar
- Yaqub Al-Hadrami
- Abu Jafar Al-Madani
One of the most influential reciters, Abu Amr Al-Basri, is known for two primary narrations: Al-Duri and Al-Sousi.
Who Was Abu Amr Al-Basri?
Born in 68 AH (687 CE) in Mecca, Abu Amr Al-Basri grew up in a time when Quranic recitation was flourishing. He studied under some of the greatest scholars of his time, including Al-Hasan Al-Basri, Mujahid ibn Jabr, and ‘Ata ibn Abi Rabah. His mastery over the Arabic language and Quranic recitation made him one of the most revered reciters in Islamic history.
The great scholar Ibn Al-Jazari said about him: “There was no one more knowledgeable about the Quran and Arabic than Abu Amr.”
The Legacy of Al-Sousi
Among Abu Amr’s prominent students was Abu Shu'ayb Saleh ibn Ziyad Al-Sousi, a meticulous and highly trusted reciter. Al-Sousi studied directly under Yahya Al-Yazidi, one of Abu Amr’s closest disciples, ensuring the authenticity and precision of his narration.
Al-Sousi’s recitation is known for its balance between fluidity and precision, making it one of the most melodious Quranic Readings practiced today.
What Makes Al-Sousi’s Recitation Unique?
1- Basmala Between Surahs
Al-Sousi offers three variations when transitioning between surahs:
- Reciting with Basmala.
- Pausing without Basmala (preferred method).
- Connecting without Basmala.
2- Madd (Elongation) Rules
- Madd Muttasil (Connected Lengthening): 4 harakat.
- Madd Munfasil (Separated Lengthening): 2 harakat.
3- Merging (Idgham) & Pronunciation
Al-Sousi is known for blending certain letters smoothly:
- Idgham of “Dhal” into “Ta” (e.g., “Ittakhazt-tum”)
- Idgham of “Dhal” in several letters like “Sin, Zay, Sad, Jim” (e.g., “Idh-Zayyan”)
- Merging the letter “Baa” into “Faa” (e.g., “Yarhambu-Fikum”)
4- Special Rules for Noon and Meem Sounds
Al-Sousi has distinctive nasalization (ghunnah) rules that make his recitation easily recognizable and highly melodious.
The Impact of Al-Sousi’s Recitation
Al-Sousi’s recitation is widely practiced, especially in North Africa, Sudan, and Mauritania. It has been a foundational recitation in traditional Quranic Schools, passing down its rich heritage to thousands of students.
Imam Ibn Al-Jazari noted in his famous work An-Nashr fi Al-Qira'at Al-Ashr, “The accuracy and consistency of Al-Sousi’s recitation have made it one of the most authentic and enduring Quranic Readings to this day.”
How to Learn Al-Sousi’s Recitation?
If you’re interested in mastering Al-Sousi’s Recitation, here are some excellent resources:
📖 Highly Recommended Books:
- “Al-Nashr fi Al-Qira'at Al-Ashr” by Ibn Al-Jazari.
- “At-Taysir fi Al-Qira'at As-Sab’” by Abu Amr Ad-Dani.
- “It-haf Fudala’ Al-Bashar” by Al-Dimyati.
🎓 Online Learning Platforms:
- Taj Academy for Quran recitations.
- Qiraa’ati Platform for advanced Quranic studies.
- Noon Institute for mastering Quranic Readings.
Final Thoughts: A Spiritual Journey Awaits
The Ten Quranic Readings are a testament to the Quran’s divine preservation. Al-Sousi’s Recitation is not just a way to read the Quran—it is a melody, a rhythm, a spiritual experience that transcends time and place. If you are passionate about the beauty of the Quran, why not begin your journey today?
Have you ever listened to Al-Sousi’s Recitation? Share your thoughts in the comments! 📩