An Analytical Study of the Quranic Consonantal Phonetic Characteristics in Ayat al-Kursi
摘要
Knowledge of the phonetic characteristics of Quranic letters is essential for Muslims to master, as it enriches understanding of the Quran and ensures accurate and proper recitation. Mispronunciations of certain Quranic consonants, many of which share phonetic similarities, can lead to significant alterations in meaning and misinterpretation of divine messages. Preliminary observations at several Quranic learning centers in Kedah, Malaysia, revealed that most students struggle to articulate Quranic letters accurately. This study aims to identify and analyze the consonantal phonetic features in Ayat al-Kursi as part of a broader, ongoing effort to document these features throughout the Quran’s 30 juz. This research builds upon earlier investigations of Surah al-Fatiha and Surah al-Baqarah (verses 1–5). Employing content analysis and literature review methods, the study identified 14 phonetic consonantal attributes in Ayat al-Kursi: Istifāl, Hams, Isti’lā’, Inhirāf, Takrīr, Bainiyyah, Rakhawah, Ghunnah, Iṭbāq, Shiddah, Tafasysyi, Lin, Isṭiṭālah, and Ṣafīr. The exposure of these phonetic data is expected to assist the Muslim community in refining their Quranic pronunciation practices by the prophetic tradition.