The types of Ijazah in Tajweed reflect different levels of mastery in Quranic recitation, from single-narration fluency to advanced certifications in multiple Qira’at. These Ijazat serve as formal recognition that a student has met the highest standards of Quranic pronunciation, rhythm, and Tajweed.
Whether you’re seeking to teach, lead prayer, or deepen your Quranic journey, understanding the different Ijazah types is essential. This guide outlines the five main types of Tajweed Ijazah, who they’re for, and what each requires.
1. Single Narration Ijazah
The Single Narration Ijazah is the most common and foundational type of Ijazah in Quranic recitation. It is granted to students who master the recitation of the entire Quran—or a significant portion of it—according to a specific narration (Qira’ah), most often Hafs ‘an ‘Asim, which is the most widely recited narration globally.
This Ijazah certifies that the student has:
- Recited the Quran from cover to cover (or as required) under direct supervision.
Applied all the Tajweed rules precisely as dictated by the selected narration. - Achieved fluency, accuracy, and consistency in pronunciation and rhythm.
- Demonstrated sufficient understanding to teach that specific narration.
The Ijazah is typically issued by a certified teacher with an unbroken Sanad (chain of transmission) that links back to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, affirming both the authenticity of the recitation and the student’s eligibility to teach it.
Who it’s for: Students who have strong foundational skills in Tajweed and aim to gain recognized authority in one Qira’ah. This is often the first step before pursuing more advanced Ijazat.
2. Ijazah in the Ten Major Recitations (Al-Qira’at Al-‘Ashr Al-Kubra)
This is an advanced-level Ijazah granted to students who have mastered all ten canonical Qira’at, each of which has two sub-narrators. These Qira’at are preserved through rigorous oral transmission and represent different authentic ways of reciting the Quran as transmitted from the Prophet ﷺ.
The Ten Major Qira’at include:
- Nafi‘
- Ibn Kathir
- Abu ‘Amr
- Ibn ‘Amir
- ‘Asim
- Hamzah
- Al-Kisai
- Abu Ja‘far
- Ya‘qub
- Khalaf
Each Qira’ah has its own unique rules, vocalization differences, and stylistic features, which the student must learn, master, and recite under a qualified teacher’s supervision.
This type of Ijazah is often transmitted through well-known chains like Ṭarīq Ṭuyoor al-Nashr—a documented path in the science of Qira’at that details how the recitations are transmitted through generations.
3. Ijazah in the Three Supplemental Recitations (Thulāthiyyah al-Muqmilah)
This Ijazah covers the three additional Qira’at that supplement the ten major recitations, making a total of thirteen canonical and well-known recitations in advanced Qira’at studies. These include:
- Al-Durrah al-Muḍiyyah (The Luminous Pearl)
- Al-Shāṭibiyyah (a foundational poem for the Seven Qira’at)
- Al-Durrah al-Ṣughrā (a poem that covers the three additional Qira’at)
Receiving this Ijazah means the student has:
- Mastered the recitation of the three supplemental Qira’at through a certified teacher.
- Understood the theoretical and practical differences between these Qira’at and the original ten.
- Acquired knowledge of the poetic frameworks (nadhm) that preserve these Qira’at.
Who it’s for: Advanced students who have completed the Ten Major Recitations and seek to expand their specialization in Qira’at sciences—particularly in oral transmission and academic study.
4. Ijazah in Memorization and Mastery (Hifz wa Itqān)
This Ijazah is awarded to students who have:
- Memorized the entire Quran flawlessly.
- Demonstrated proficiency in Tajweed and accurate articulation of every letter (Makharij and Sifaat).
- Maintained consistent revision (Murāja‘ah) to ensure long-term retention.
- Recited the Quran cover-to-cover from memory (Khatmah) in front of a certified teacher.
This is often considered one of the highest forms of Ijazah, as it reflects both technical excellence and deep spiritual commitment to the Quran.
Who it’s for: Serious students or Huffādh (memorizers of the Quran) who aim to become certified teachers or Imams and desire to transmit the Quran to others with a valid Sanad.
5. Ijazah in Proficient Recitation (Iqāmah al-Qirā’ah)
This type of Ijazah is awarded to those who can:
- Recite the Quran fluently by reading from the Mus’haf with near-perfect application of Tajweed rules.
- Understand and explain theoretical Tajweed (especially through poetic texts like Tuhfat al-Atfāl or al-Jazariyyah).
- Show capability in teaching Tajweed, even if they haven’t memorized the entire Quran.
This Ijazah is common among teachers who specialize in Tajweed instruction, pronunciation correction, and helping others improve recitation—even without full memorization.
Who it’s for: Students who have strong Tajweed, a clear and consistent recitation style, and aspire to teach or assist others in reading the Quran correctly—especially via visual recitation.
We’re thrilled to celebrate Sister Hajar’s achievement—officially granted her Ijazah by Ustadha Rabi’a Fathy at Shaykhi Academy! Her success reflects dedication, expert guidance, and our commitment to authentic Quranic transmission.
Watch the ceremony (featuring Dr. Mahmoud Al-Assal & Ustadh Luqman Al-Kasbani):
If you’re seeking to earn your Ijazah and become part of this noble legacy, we invite you to join our Quran Ijazah Program and begin your journey today.
Conclusion:
Earning an Ijazah in Tajweed is more than a personal achievement—it’s a trust passed down through an unbroken chain back to the Prophet ﷺ. Each type of Ijazah builds on precision, discipline, and sincere dedication to preserving the Quran.
Whether you begin with a single narration or pursue all ten major recitations, every step affirms your role in the sacred tradition of oral transmission. Choose the path that suits your level and intention—and continue the legacy.
