Makhaarij Al-Huroof: Points of Articulation
Tajwid makhaarij – points of articulation for Arabic letters
What are Makhaarij?
Makhaarij Al-Huroof (مخارج الحروف) are the precise locations in the mouth, throat, and nose from which each Arabic letter originates. Correct makhaarij produce the authentic sound of each letter and are essential for valid recitation.
The Five Main Regions (المناطق الخمس)
الجوف (Al-Jawf – Empty space): Long vowels ا، و، ي
الحلق (Al-Halq – Throat): Six throat letters – أ ه (deepest), ع ح (middle), غ خ (upper throat)
اللسان (Al-Lisan – Tongue): 18 letters from various tongue positions
الشفتان (Al-Shafatan – Lips): ف (lower lip + upper teeth), ب م و (both lips)
الخيشوم (Al-Khayshoom – Nasal passage): Ghunnah (nasalisation) sounds
Most Commonly Mispronounced Letters
ض (Daad), ظ (Zha), ع (Ain), ق (Qaf), and ح (light H) are the letters non-native Arabic speakers most often mispronounce. Each requires targeted practice.
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