Modes of Recitation
The most widely accepted and practiced modes of Quranic recitation are the following:
Qira’at of Hafs ‘an ‘Asim: This is the most common and widely accepted mode of recitation. It is the mode of recitation that is prevalent in most parts of the Muslim world.
Qira’at of Warsh ‘an Nafi’: This mode is mainly followed in parts of North and West Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, and parts of West Africa.
Qira’at of Qalun ‘an Nafi’: This is another mode of recitation attributed to Nafi’, and it is mainly followed in Libya.
Qira’at of Al-Duri ‘an Abu ‘Amr: This mode is less common and is followed by a smaller number of Muslims. It is more prevalent in West Africa, particularly in countries such as Mali, Niger, Chad, and Nigeria. While it may not be as widespread as the Hafs ‘an ‘Asim qira’at, it has a significant following in these regions.
Qira’at of Khalaf ‘an Hamzah: Also less common and followed by a smaller number of Muslims.
Qira’at of Ibn Kathir ‘an Abu ‘Amr: This mode of recitation is attributed to Abu ‘Amr, and it is not as widely practiced as Hafs ‘an ‘Asim.
Qira’at of Ibn ‘Amir ‘an Yazeed: This is another less common mode of recitation, mainly followed in Sudan.
Qira’at of Ya’qub: At one point in history, the Qira’at of Ya’qub was one of the prominent modes of recitation practiced globally. While it is less common in many parts of the Muslim world today, it remains prevalent in Sudan and has historical significance in the development of Qur’anic recitation.