Quick answer: The Quran has ten authenticated modes of recitation, known as the Qira’at. They are all divinely revealed ways of reciting the Quran, transmitted through ten famous reciters, each with two main narrators (rawis). The most widespread today is Hafs an Asim.
What are the Qira’at?
The Qira’at are authenticated variations in recitation — small differences in pronunciation and, occasionally, wording — that were all taught by the Prophet Muhammad and preserved through an unbroken chain. They are not errors or different Qurans; they are part of the Quran’s divinely preserved richness.
The ten reciters
The ten reciters are Nafi of Madinah, Ibn Kathir of Makkah, Abu Amr of Basra, Ibn Amir of Damascus, Asim of Kufa, Hamzah of Kufa, Al-Kisa’i of Kufa, Abu Ja’far of Madinah, Ya’qub of Basra, and Khalaf. Each has two well-known narrators who transmitted his reading.
Why Hafs is the most common
Most of the Muslim world today recites in the narration of Hafs from the reciter Asim. This is the reading printed in the most widely used Mushafs, which is why beginners almost always start with it.
Should you learn the Qira’at?
The ten Qira’at are an advanced, specialist study, usually pursued after mastering Tajweed and often Hifz. For most learners, perfecting recitation in Hafs is the priority; the Qira’at come later for those seeking deep expertise.
Frequently asked questions
What are the 10 Qira’at?
They are ten authenticated modes of reciting the Quran, all taught by the Prophet and transmitted through ten famous reciters, each with two narrators.
Which Qira’ah is most common?
The narration of Hafs from Asim, used in most of the Muslim world and printed in the most common Mushafs.
Are the Qira’at different Qurans?
No. They are divinely preserved variations in recitation, not different Qurans.
Related reading
- Tajweed rules for beginners
- What is Ijazah and how to get certified online
- Types of Ijazah in the Quran
Ready to work toward your Ijazah? Explore our online Ijazah course or book 3 free trial classes.