Arabic Harakat with Meaning, Types & Examples
The Arabic language is known for its detailed diacritic marks called “harakat.” These marks are key for correct Quran pronunciation and recitation, known as Tajweed. Knowing about harakat is vital for anyone wanting to learn Arabic well.
In Arabic, Harakat (حركات) is a vital concept with tremendous significance. There are only 3 main Harakat in Arabic. Although they are few in number, they are of huge importance. What are they and how important they are will be elaborated, in some detail, in this article. We will tackle the definition of Harakat, what is Harakat in Tajweed, and the types of Harakat.
We will also discuss how many Harakat are there in Arabic, and the difference between Harakat and Tashkeel. We will also give some Harakat examples from the Quran. Also, we will examine Arabic Harakat rules, the benefits of learning Arabic Harakat, and how to learn Arabic Harakat. Finally, we will talk about common mistakes made in applying Harakat and how to avoid them.
What is Harakah in Arabic
Harakat are vowel marks above or below Arabic letters. They show the right sound pronunciation. They help readers say words clearly and correctly. Learning to use harakat is a big step in reading and speaking Arabic, especially for Quran recitation.
Understanding harakat’s purpose and value helps learners appreciate Arabic’s subtleties. It improves their ability to communicate in writing and speaking. This knowledge is useful for Quran study and for those interested in Arabic culture and language.
Understanding Harakat in Arabic
Harakat, the short vowel diacritical marks in Arabic, are key to correct and smooth pronunciation. They are placed above or below letters to show the right vowel sounds. This is crucial for learning Arabic speech and reciting the Quran.
Definition and Purpose
Harakat help Arabic learners and speakers pronounce words right. They show the small differences in vowel sounds, which change a word’s meaning and feel. Using harakat correctly is vital for Tajweed, the art of Quran recitation.
Importance in Pronunciation
Harakat are not just for looks in the Arabic script; they’re the base for correct speech. Without them, it’s hard for non-native speakers to read Arabic well. Learning harakat helps people read and write Arabic better.
“Harakat are the keys to unlocking the true beauty and depth of the Arabic language.”
Learning to use harakat is a big step in understanding Arabic. It’s important for studying the Quran, talking every day, or exploring Arabic literature. Knowing how to use these marks is key to speaking and reading Arabic well.
Types of Harakat
To understand what is harakat in arabic, we need to look at the main types. The Arabic language has three main harakat: Fathah, Kasrah, and Dammah. Each one shows a different short vowel sound.
1- Fathah, Kasrah, and Dammah
The Fathah is a small diagonal stroke above a consonant. It means the short vowel sound “a” like in “apple.” The Kasrah is a small diagonal stroke below a consonant. It shows the short vowel sound “i” like in “ink.” The Dammah is a small curve above a consonant. It means the short vowel sound “u” like in “umbrella.”
These harakat are key for how to read arabic without harakat correctly. They help us say the right vowel sounds in Arabic words.
2- Tanwin and Sukun
There are also Tanwin and Sukun. Tanwin is a double Fathah, Kasrah, or Dammah at the end of a word. It shows there’s a final short vowel sound. Sukun is a small circle above a consonant. It means there’s no vowel sound and we should “hold” the consonant.
Knowing about these harakat is important. They help us read and say Arabic words right. They guide us in making the correct vowel sounds and keeping the language’s rhythm.
| Harakat | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fathah | A small diagonal stroke placed above a consonant, indicating the short vowel sound “a”. | كَتَبَ (kataba) |
| Kasrah | A small diagonal stroke placed below a consonant, representing the short vowel sound “i”. | كِتَابٌ (kitābun) |
| Dammah | A small upward-facing curve placed above a consonant, denoting the short vowel sound “u”. | كُتُبٌ (kutubun) |
| Tanwin | A small double Fathah, Kasrah, or Dammah placed at the end of a word, indicating the presence of a final short vowel sound. | كِتَابٌ (kitābun) |
| Sukun | A small circle placed above a consonant, signifying the absence of a vowel sound and the need to “hold” the consonant. | كَتْبٌ (katbun) |
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Harakat in Arabic and Tajweed
Harakat, the diacritical marks in Arabic, are key to Tajweed. Tajweed is the art of reading the Quran correctly. Knowing how to use harakat is crucial for reading the Quran well.
Harakat includes fathah, kasrah, and dammah. They show the short vowel sounds in Arabic. This helps readers say each word right and keep the recitation’s rhythm.
In Tajweed, harakat do more than help with pronunciation. They also show the meaning and feelings of the Quran. Good Quran readers pay close attention to harakat to make their recitation meaningful and respectful.
“Proper recitation of the Quran with the correct application of harakat is a hallmark of a pious and devout Muslim.”
Learning to read Arabic with harakat is important for Quranic recitation. It helps deepen one’s connection with the Quran. This skill makes spiritual practice more meaningful.
How To Learn Arabic Harakat?
Learning Harakat is crucial, especially when reading the Quran. Here are some easy steps to help you:
A- Learn Basic Arabic Grammar and Tajweed:
To learn Arabic Harakat, start with basic Arabic Grammar and Noorani Qaida Course. For example, you can:
B- Join Mishkah Academy:
Mishkah Academy offers top online Tajweed and Arabic courses. Join our Arabic Course for Kids and Tajweed Course at Mishkah Academy.
C- Seek Feedback and Correction:
Find an Egyptian Quran Tutor for guidance and feedback. They can help you improve your recitation. Listen to an experienced teacher and repeat after them. They will correct your mistakes. At Mishkah Academy, many qualified Quran mentors are ready to help. They offer feedback and follow-up.
Reading Arabic with Harakat
Learning to read Arabic with harakat is key for language learners. It’s important to know how to use harakat to speak words and phrases correctly. This skill helps in mastering Arabic fluently.
What is Harakah in Tajweed!
Harakat in Tajweed are key for correct Quran recitation. They deal with the timing of each letter’s pronunciation. Let’s dive into this:
Harakat As A Length Of Pronouncing A Letter: Each letter has a specific number of Harakat. One Haraka is like one finger count. Here’s a closer look:
1- Constants:
Usually, a constant takes only 1 Haraka.
“قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ”
Each letter in “أحد” gets only 1 Haraka.
2- Normal Madd:
The normal Madd (extension) of the 3 Arabic letters (أ و ي) is 2 Harakat, each. So, an Arabic person with perfect pronunciation will normally give these 2 Harakat when reading any of أ و ي letters.
“وَٱلتِّينِ وَٱلزَّيْتُونِ ١ وَطُورِ سِينِينَ ٢ وَهَـٰذَا ٱلْبَلَدِ ٱلْأَمِينِ ٣ لَقَدْ خَلَقْنَا ٱلْإِنسَـٰنَ فِىٓ أَحْسَنِ تَقْوِيمٍۢ”
In these 4 verses, all و and ي letters have 2 Harakat. So, if the word “وَٱلتِّينِ” is given only 1 Haraka, the recitation (Tajweed) of this word will be incorrect.
3 – Other Kinds Of Madd:
There are other types of Madd in the Quran that have to be 4-6 Harakat. Some of them are mandatory and some are optional.
“وَلَا ٱلضَّآلِّينَ”
In this part of the verse, the “آ” sound in the word ٱلضَّآلِّينَ needs to have 4 Harakat, while the “يـ” sound in the same word should have 6 Harakat so that the recitation of this word is correct.
To sum up, Harakat, in this sense, is used to organize how long a letter will be pronounced so that the recitation will be correct.
What Is Harakat in Arabic!
Harakat (الحركات) are marks above or below Arabic letters. They show how to say letters right. Arabic letters are split into two groups: those with Haraka and those without.
1- Mutahrik (متحرك) (A Letter with a Haraka):
There are three main Harakat: Fatha (َ), Damma (ُ), and Kasra (ِ). A Mutahrik letter has one of these marks. When you say this letter, your lips move in a special way.
“قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ”
The ق letter in “قُلْ” has a Damma (ُ). So, it’s a Mutahrik letter.
2- Sakin (A Letter Without Any Haraka):
A Sakin letter has no Harakat. It’s marked with a small حـ above or has nothing on it.
“قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ”
In “قُلْ”, the لْ letter has a small حـ. So, it’s a Sakin letter.
“مِن شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ”
In “مِن”, the ن letter has nothing on it. So, it’s a Sakin letter.
How Many Harakat Are There in Arabic?
There are 3 main Harakat in Arabic. These are Fatha (َ), Damma (ُ), and Kasra (ِ). They are key for correct Arabic pronunciation and speaking.
1- Fatha (َ):
Fatha is the short “a” sound. Say it like the “a” in “up”. Open your mouth and keep your tongue still.
Example: كَتب
The “ka” sound in this word comes from a Fatha.
Placement of Haraka: Above the letter.
2. Damma (ُ):
Damma is the short “u” sound. Say it like the “u” in “over”. Round your lips to get it right.
Example: كُتب
The “ku” sound in this word comes from a Damma.
Placement of Haraka: Above the letter.
3. Kasra (ِ):
It represents the short “i” sound [like the “i” sound in the middle of the word “keeper”]. The lower jaw is lowered, and the tongue is lifted.
Example: كِتاب
The first letter of this word is pronounced as “ki”, as it has a Kasra.
Placement of Haraka: Below the letter.
What is the Difference Between Harakat and Tashkeel?
Now, let’s explore the difference between Harakat and Tashkeel in Arabic. First, we need to define “Tashkeel”. Tashkeel is a system of diacritics used in Arabic writing. It shows how to pronounce letters. It’s key for reading Arabic text right, especially for those new to the language.
“ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلْعَـٰلَمِينَ”
In this verse, the Tashkeel (diacritics) are shown by signs like:
ًّ ْ ُ ِ ّ
Tashkeel guides readers to read words correctly. It helps make Harakat accurate. So, Tashkeel is the written signs, and Harakat is the practical part of the language.
Arabic Harakat Rules
There are rules for Harakat in Arabic. Let’s look at some:
1- Pronunciation Rather Than Writing:
Harakat deals with how to say words, not how to write them. This is why a letter can change its sound based on its word position.
“قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ ٱلْفَلَقِ”
The letter ق in قُل has Damma Haraka. But in الفلق, it’s Sakin. This shows how letters change based on their position.
2- How Do Arabs Use Mutahrik And Sakin?
Arabs have a simple rule:
.“العرب لا تبدأ بساكن ولا تقف على متحرك”
[Arabic speakers do not start with a Sakin letter and do not end with a Mutahrik letter].
This means the first letter of any word must be Mutahrik. The last letter of a syllable must be Sakin.
“وَٱلْعَصْرِ”
In this verse, the first letter is Mutahrik. The last letter (ر) has two cases:
A- If the reciter stops at it and makes Ibtida [starts anew] with the next verse, the ر letter is Sakin. So, the ر sound is pronounced without any Harakat.
How does Haraka affect the Meaning in the Quran?
In Arabic, the subject (the doer of the action – الفاعل) in the sentence has the Damma (ُ) at the end of the word if it is singular. The object in the sentence has the Fatha () at the end of the word if it is singular. Let’s look at an example from the Quran:
Allah says:
“إِنَّمَا يَخْشَى ٱللَّهَ مِنْ عِبَادِهِ ٱلْعُلَمَـٰٓؤُا۟ ۗ”
In this verse, the word “الله” must be pronounced as “Allaha” [اللهَ]. Saying it as “Allaho” [اللهُ] changes the meaning. It would mean Allah fears His knowledgeable servants, not the other way around. The correct pronunciation keeps the verse’s true meaning: Allah is feared by His knowledgeable servants.
This example shows how wrong Haraka can change a verse’s meaning. Learning Harakat is key to keeping the Quran’s meaning intact.
How does Haraka affect the meaning of a single word?
A single word can have different meanings based on its Haraka.
For example:
The word عقد has 3 letters (ع ق د). It can mean 6 different things depending on its Haraka. Here are the meanings:
1- “عُقْد”: means “Necklace”,
2- “عِقد”: means “Decade”,
3- “عَقْد”: means “Contract”,
4- “عَقَدَ”: means “Held”,
5- “عَقَّدَ”: means “Complicated”,
6- “عُقَّدْ”: means “Knots”.
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Conclusion
Mastering Harakat is key for speaking Arabic well, even if you’re not Arab. Harakat are important for reading Arabic texts right. They help show the sound of letters and keep the meaning of words.
By learning Harakat rules, you can speak Arabic correctly and recite the Quran well. Remember, “Practice makes perfect.” The more you practice, the fewer mistakes you’ll make.
FAQs
What are harakat in Arabic?
Harakat are special marks in Arabic that show vowel sounds. They are key for correct Quran recitation, known as Tajweed.
Why are harakat important in Arabic?
Harakat help with clear Arabic speech. They show the right vowel sound, which is vital for Tajweed. This ensures the Quran is read correctly.
What are the main types of harakat?
The main harakat are Fathah, Kasrah, and Dammah. They stand for “a,” “i,” and “u” short vowel sounds. Tanwin and Sukun are special harakat for final short vowels or no vowel sound.
Read Arabic without harakat?
Reading Arabic without harakat needs practice and special techniques. You must learn the Harakat, where they go, and how they affect sound. Doing exercises with Arabic words and sentences helps improve your skills.
How do I put harakat in an Arabic keyboard?
Adding harakat to an Arabic keyboard varies by software or device. Many tools let you add harakat directly. You can use shortcuts, menus, or special input methods. Knowing how to do this on your platform is key for writing in Arabic.
