(qur‟an and sunnah studies)
TRANSCRIPT
THE SCIENCE OF QIRĀ‟ĀT FOR BEGINNERS IN
MALAYSIA: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF SELECTED
WEBSITES
BY
ZATI SYAHMEENA BINTI ZULKIFLI
A thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the
degree of Master of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and
Heritage
(Qur‟an and Sunnah Studies)
Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human
Sciences
International Islamic University Malaysia
FEBRUARY 2018
ii
ABSTRACT
The outcome of five seasons of a TV programme known as Akademi Al-Quran (al-
Quran Academy) has created an awareness on the existence of the Science of Qirā‟āt
among the Malaysian Muslim public. This programme has triggered the public‟s
curiosity to know and learn the uniqueness of this knowledge. Living in an era of
communication technology, the Internet has been the most preferred medium for
instant information. There is an ample amount of websites that offer information on
the Science of Qirā‟āt in different languages including English, Arabic and Malay.
However, this information might make it difficult for beginners to identify relevant
and reliable sources on this knowledge. For this reason, this research attempts to
introduce the true meaning of the Science of Qirā‟āt suitable for the Malaysian public
and analyse the influence of the Information and Communication Technology as a
subject of analysis by reviewing books, articles and online and printed journals that
discuss the Science of Qirā‟āt. This study has selected eight websites for analysis
based on aspects of objectivity, legitimacy, authority, credibility, relevance and
reliability. The analysis and evaluation of these six aspects on the content provided on
these selected websites will be based on the materials available, since the information
was provided up to June 2014. Furthermore, the analysis will also be applied on the
interface design of the website and evaluate the implementation of the multimedia
aspect, the arrangement of words, graphics, audio and others. The results of the
analysis will conclude on the analytical evaluation of the content and interface design
in order to suggest recommendations for improvement in the future. As a result, a
majority of the informative websites were developed by established and well-known
individuals with acclaimed qualifications and the content provided by authorised and
credibility people. They are also considered reliable and relevant to be considered as
references for beginners in Malaysia.
iii
ثخلاصة البح
نتائج الدواسم الخمسة للبرنامج التلفزيوني الدعروف باسم أكاديمية القرآن )أكاديمية القرآن ىذا البرنامج يثير فضول .الكرن( قد خلق وعيا لعلم القراءات بين الدسلمين في ماليزيا
الشبكة للعيش في عصر تكنولوجيا الاتصالات، فإن .الجمهور لدعرفة وتعلم مميزات ىذه الدعرفةىناك العديد من الدواقع التي تقدم .العالدية ىى أفضل وسيلة للحصول على الدعلومات بسرعة
لكن كثرة .معلومات حول علم القراءات بلغات مختلفة منها الإنجليزية والعربية والدلايويةالدعلومات قد تؤدي إلى صعوبات بالنسبة للمبتدئين لتحديد مصادر موثوقة وذات الصلة
لقراءات االمحتويات الدناسبة في علوم تقدنإلى ىذا البحث يهدفولذذا السبب، ذه الدعرفة. بهالاتصالات كموضوع للتحليل من و تأثير تكنولوجيا الدعلومات وتحليل للجمهور في ماليزيا
. لقراءاتا خلال دراسة الكتب والدقالات والمجلات على الانتنت والدطبوعة التي تناقش علوم( مواقع للتحليل استنادا على مفاىيم الجوانب الشرعية 8واختارت ىذه الدراسة ثمانية )
ىذا التحليل وتقييم المحتويات الدختارة .والدوضوعية والأولوية والدصداقية والدلاءمة والدوثوقيةعلى الدوقع الإلكتوني ستكون على أساس الدواد الدتوفرة التي بدأت منذ قدمت الدعلومات
. كما سيتم استخدام ىذا التحليل في تصميم واجهة في الدوقع الإلكتوني 4102 يونيو حتىالذي يستعرض تنفيذ وتقون جانب الوسائط الدتعددة، وترتيب الكلمات، والرسومات،
وخلصت نتائج ىذا التحليل إلى التقييم التحليلي في المحتويات وتصميم .والصوت وغيرىاوكنتيجة لذلك، فإن معظم الدواقع .ح توصيات للتحسين في الدستقبلواجهة من أجل أن تقت
الإعلامية التي طورت من خلال الإنشاء والأفراد غير الدعروفين مع الدؤىلات الواضحة، والمحتويات الدقدمو شرعية إذا ذكروا الدراجع أو لا تتعارض مع الدراجع الكلاسيكية. كما أن
راجع للمبتدئين في ماليزيا.المحتويات ذات الصلة تعتبر كم
iv
APPROVAL PAGE
I certify that I have supervised and read this study and that in my opinion, it conforms
to acceptable standards of scholarly presentation and is fully adequate, in scope and
quality, as a thesis for the degree of Master of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and
Heritage (Qur‟ān and Sunnah Studies)
…………………………………..
Raudlotul Firdaus binti Fatah
Yasin
Supervisor
…………………………………..
Nurul Jannah binti Zainan Nazri
Co-Supervisor
I certify that I have read this study and that in my opinion it conforms to acceptable
standards of scholarly presentation and is fully adequate, in scope and quality, as a
thesis for the degree of Master of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Heritage (Qur‟ān
and Sunnah Studies)
…………………………………..
Mohd Shah bin Jani
Examiner
This thesis was submitted to the Department of Qur‟an and Sunnah and is accepted as
a fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of Master of Islamic Revealed
Knowledge and Heritage (Qur‟ān and Sunnah Studies)
…………………………………..
Radwan Jamal El Atrash
Head, Department of Qur‟an and
Sunnah
This thesis was submitted to the Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and
Human Sciences and is accepted as a fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of
Master of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Heritage (Qur‟ān and Sunnah Studies)
…………………………………..
Mohammad Abdul Quayum
Abdus Salam
Dean, Kulliyyah of Islamic
Revealed Knowledge and Human
Sciences
v
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this dissertation is the result of my own investigations, except
where otherwise stated. I also declare that it has not been previously or concurrently
submitted as a whole for any other degrees at IIUM or other institutions.
Zati Syahmeena binti Zulkifli
Signature ........................................................... Date .........................................
vi
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA
DECLARATION OF COPYRIGHT AND AFFIRMATION OF
FAIR USE OF UNPUBLISHED RESEARCH
THE SCIENCE OF QIRĀ’ĀT FOR BEGINNERS IN MALAYSIA:
AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF SELECTED WEBSITES
I declare that the copyright holders of this dissertation are jointly owned by the student
and IIUM.
Copyright © 2018 Zati Syahmeena binti Zulkifli and International Islamic University Malaysia. All
rights reserved.
No part of this unpublished research may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,
or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise without prior written permission of the copyright holder
except as provided below
1. Any material contained in or derived from this unpublished research may
be used by others in their writing with due acknowledgement.
2. IIUM or its library will have the right to make and transmit copies (print
or electronic) for institutional and academic purposes.
3. The IIUM library will have the right to make, store in a retrieved system
and supply copies of this unpublished research if requested by other
universities and research libraries.
By signing this form, I acknowledged that I have read and understand the IIUM
Intellectual Property Right and Commercialization policy.
Affirmed by Zati Syahmeena binti Zulkifli
……..…………………….. ………………………..
Signature Date
vii
This dissertation is dedicated
To my beloved husband, Muhammad Heikal bin Nasrir,
Thank you for your patient and supporting me to the end of this journey
My beloved sons,
Muhammad Hakeem Itqan
&
Muhammad Hafizh Imran
Thank you for cheering me, both of you such a blessing
All my dearest family;
Abah, Mama, Abang and Adik
&
Abah and Ibu and in-laws
Thank you for your support, countless help and endless prayer to make this happen
viii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
In the name of Allah (swt) the Most Graceful and Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah
(swt) the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds and His Messenger Muhammad
(pbuh) upon sending two glorious favours which is Islam and Iman (faith) acting as
guidance towards leading life more preciously and meaningful. May Allah (swt)
honour him and grant him peace.
Firstly, it is my utmost pleasure to dedicate this work to my beloved husband
who has been a constant source of support and encouragement during the challenges
of graduate studies and life. Thank you for your great support and patience, I am truly
thankful for having you in my life. To my little caliphs, Muhammad Hakeem Itqan
and Muhammad Hafizh Imran, thank you for cheering me up. To my dearest parents
and parent-in law with their never-ending prayer and support at all times, thank you
very much.
I wish to express my appreciation to my supervisor Dr. Raudlotul Firdaus binti
Fatah Yasin for intellectual guidance, who provided her time, patience, support and
never gave up on me to complete this dissertation. I‟m also grateful to my co-
supervisor, Dr. Nurul Jannah binti Zainan Nazri for his cooperation which contributed
to the outcome of this research. Also, thanks to Dr. Mohd Shah bin Jani, the examiner
for this dissertation for his evaluation and to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Radwan Jamal El
Atrash, the Head of Department of Qur‟ān and Sunnah Studies for his assistance.
Finally, a special thanks to Prof. Dr. Israr Ahmad Khan, Prof. Dr. Mohamed
Abul Lais, Prof. Dr. Thameem Ushama, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Mumtaz Ali, Dr. Habeeb
Rahman Ibramsa, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saodah Abd. Rahman and Dr. Nadzrah Ahmad, for
their guidance, support, encouragement and advice that contributed to the completing
of my studies, and for that, I will be forever grateful.
I wish to acknowledge my appreciation to all lecturers at the Islamic Science
University of Malaysia (USIM) for their support, especially Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adnan
Bin Mohamed Yusoff. A special thanks to the Ministry of Higher Education and
Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM) for giving me this opportunity to
further my studies under their sponsorship. Thanks to all Islamic Science University
of Malaysia‟s staff, especially from the Faculty of Quranic and Sunnah Studies and
Human Resources Division. I would like to also thank all staff of the Kulliyyah of
Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, the Postgraduate Office,
Department of Qur‟ān and Sunnah, and the Centre for Postgraduate Studies of IIUM.
Lastly, my special gratitude also goes to my friends who have contributed and
helped me directly or indirectly in the completion of this dissertation. To those who
have comforted me during tough and stormy days, and made me smile, thanks to you.
I hope those moments can be one of the beautiful moments in our lives. May Allah
reward your kindness and bless all of us in this world and the Hereafter. Thank you.
ix
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract .................................................................................................................... ii
Abstract in Arabic .................................................................................................... iii
Approval page .......................................................................................................... iv
Declaration ............................................................................................................... v
Copyright Page ......................................................................................................... vi
Acknowledgements .................................................................................................. viii
List of Tables ........................................................................................................... xi
List of Figures .......................................................................................................... xii
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION .................................................................. 1
1.1 Background of The Study ....................................................................... 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem........................................................................ 4
1.3 Research Questions ................................................................................. 5
1.4 Research Objectives................................................................................ 5
1.5 Significance of the Study ........................................................................ 6
1.6 Literature Review ................................................................................... 7
1.7 Scope/Limitations of the Study .............................................................. 18
1.8 Research Methodology ........................................................................... 19
CHAPTER TWO: INTRODUCTION TO THE SCIENCE OF QIRĀ’ĀT ...... 21
2.1 Introduction............................................................................................. 21
2.2 The Definition of Science of Qirā‟āt ..................................................... 23
2.3 Relation Between Science of Qirā‟āt and Sab‛ah Aḥruf ........................ 25
2.4 The Category of Qirā‟āt and Its Transmitters ........................................ 28
2.5 Introduction of Qirā‟āt to the Public ...................................................... 38
2.5.1 The Methodology of Imām Nāfi‛ .................................................. 39
2.5.2 The Methodology of Imām Ibn Kathīr .......................................... 43
2.5.3 The Methodology of Imām Abū „Amru ........................................ 44
2.5.4 The Methodology of Imām Ibn 'Āmir ........................................... 46
2.5.5 The Methodology of Imām ‛Āsim ................................................ 47
2.5.6 The Methodology of Imām Hamzah ............................................. 48
2.5.7 The Methodology of Imām al-Kisā‟ī ............................................ 49
2.6 The Development of Science of Qirā‟āt in Malaysia ............................. 50
CHAPTER THREE: THE INFLUENCE OF INFORMATION AND
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY IN THE SCIENCE OF QIRĀ’ĀT ..... 58
3.1 Introduction............................................................................................. 58
3.2 The Impact of Information and Communication Technology in
Education ................................................................................................ 60
x
3.3 The Tools of Information and Communication Technology in
Education ................................................................................................ 62
3.3.1 Computers ..................................................................................... 65
3.3.2 Multimedia .................................................................................... 67
3.3.3 Delivery Systems and Social Networking .................................... 70
3.4 Benefits of Internet and World Wide Web for Science of Qirā‟āt ......... 73
CHAPTER FOUR: ANALYTICAL EVALUATION OF SELECTED
WEBSITES ON THE SCIENCE OF QIRĀ’ĀT .................................................. 78
4.1 Introduction............................................................................................. 78
4.2 Selected Websites on Science of Qirā‟āt ............................................... 78
4.2.1 kl.utm.my ...................................................................................... 78
4.2.2 pmf.com.sg .................................................................................... 81
4.2.3 islamic-awareness.org ................................................................... 83
4.2.4 alkeltawia.com .............................................................................. 85
4.2.5 tajweedinenglish.com .................................................................... 87
4.2.6 islamweb.net ................................................................................. 89
4.2.7 youtube.com .................................................................................. 91
4.2.8 berandamadina. wordpress.com .................................................... 93
4.3 Analysis on the Content of the Selected Websites on the Science of
Qirā‟āt .................................................................................................... 95
4.3.1 Objectivity .................................................................................... 95
4.3.2 Legitimacy ................................................................................... 96
4.3.3 Authority ....................................................................................... 97
4.3.4 Credibility ..................................................................................... 98
4.3.5 Reliability ..................................................................................... 100
4.3.6 Relevance ...................................................................................... 101
4.3.7 Discussion and Finding of the Analysis ........................................ 102
4.3.8 Conclusion .................................................................................... 130
4.4 Analysis on the Web Design................................................................... 135
4.4.1 Analysis on the Implementation of Multimedia on the
Interface ........................................................................................ 136
4.4.2 Information Access / Navigation .................................................. 142
4.5 CONCLUSION ...................................................................................... 144
4.6 SUGGESTION ....................................................................................... 148
4.7 RECOMMENDATION FOR FUTURE RESEARCH ........................... 150
REFERENCES ....................................................................................................... 151
APPENDIX A : NEWSPAPER ARTICLE ON OPENING CEREMONY
OF NATIONAL MOSQUE, MALAYSIA ............................ 159
APPENDIX B : THE OUTLINE OF THE CURRICULUM SYLLABUS
ON SUBJECT OF QIRĀ’ĀT AL-SABʻ .................................. 160
APPENDIX C : BANNER QIRĀ’ĀT’S WORKSHOP AT MASJID AL-
HUDA, SEKSYEN 9, SHAH ALAM ..................................... 161
xi
LIST OF TABLES
4. 1 Summary of Evaluation on the Objectivity Aspect of the
Selected Websites 132
4. 2 Summary of Evaluation on the Legitimacy Aspect of the
Selected Websites 132
4. 3 Summary of Evaluation on the Legitimacy Aspect of the
Selected Websites 133
4. 4 Summary of Evaluation on the Credibility, Realibility and
Relevance Aspects of the Selected Websites 135
4. 5 The Summary of Analysis on User Interface in the
Implementation of Multimedia Elements 141
4. 6 The Summary for Analysis on the Navigation to Access the
Information on Science of Qirā‟āt 144
xii
LIST OF FIGURES
2. 1 The Categories of Qirā‛āt 32
2. 2 The Transmitters of Qirā‟āt al-Mutawātir 37
3. 1 Example of Books on Qirā‟āt on a Website from “shamela.ws” &
“islamweb.net” 74
4. 1 The Screenshots of Webpages of UTM KL on the Main Page and
Content of the Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 80
4. 2 The Screenshots of PMF Webpages on the Content of the Science of
Qirā‟āt on June 2014 82
4. 3 The Screenshots of “islamic-awareness.org” Webpages on the Content
of the Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 84
4. 4 The Screenshots of the Main Page of “alkeltawia.com” and the
Content of the Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 86
4. 5 The Screenshots of “tajweedinenglish.com” Webpages on the Content
of the Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 88
4. 6 The Main Page of “islamweb.net” Webpages on the Content of the
Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 90
4. 7 The Screenshots of “youtube.com” Webpages on the Content of the
Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 92
4. 8 The Screenshots of “berandamadina.wordpress.com” Webpages on
the Content of the Science of Qirā‟āt on June 2014 94
4. 9 Category of Qirā‟āt according to the of Islamic Centre of UTM KL
Website (kl.utm.my) 105
4. 10 The Content of Science of Qirā‟āt according to the of Islamic Centre
of UTM KL Website (kl.utm.my) 106
4. 11 These are the Hyperlinks label on the names of Imām that provide pdf
file of Qur‟ān Qirā‟āt 110
4. 12 The Note on the Method of Recitation for the Qurra‟ al-‛Asharah on
Yā‟āt al-Zawā‟id and Yā‟āt al-Iḍafah. 122
xiii
4. 13 The Website of “islamweb.net” Provides the Biography of Imām
Qirā‟āt and Their Rāwī including Their Methodologies in Images
Form (pdf files) and Selection Qirā‟āt Recitation in Audio Files from
Famous Qārī. 123
4. 14 The Note on the Rumūz al-‟Infirād in Matan Shāṭibiyyah provided by
“berandamadina.wordpress.com” 128
4. 15 The Note on the Rumūz al-‟Ijtimā‛ in Matan Shāṭibiyyah provided by
“berandamadina.wordpress.com” 129
4. 16 The example of terms used in the Science of Qirā‟āt by
“berandamadina.wordpress.com” 130
4.17 The Process of Evaluating Websites Design Interface and Navigation 136
4. 18 The content presentation of Science of Qirā‟āt presentation in the
website “kl.utm.my” 137
4.19 Heavy Text syle of “islamic-awareness.org” in Presenting the Content
of Science of Qirā‟āt 138
4. 20 Heavy Text Syle of “alkeltawia.com” in Presenting the Content of
Science of Qirāāt 139
4. 21 The List Selection of Podcast in “tajweedinenglish.com 140
4. 22 The Navigation Map in “islamic-awareness.org” to Access the
Content on the Science of Qirā‟āt„s. 143
1
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The Qur‟ān is the Word of Allah (swt), revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) as His
Messenger in order to teach and preach the true religion to all regardless of gender,
race, nation and language. Allah says in the Qur‟ān: “And We have sent you (O
Muhammad) not but as a Mercy for the „Ālamīn (mankind, jins and all that exists)”1.
The Qur‟ān is a miracle for all Muslims (Muʻzijat) revealed to Prophet Muhammad
(pbuh). It serves as a comprehensive guide to mankind from the time of its revelation
until the Hereafter.
The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) plays a vital role in demonstrating and training
his Companions in the recitation of the Qur‟ān. He explained the meanings of the
Kalimah (word) and highlighted the significance of the Āyah to the Companions.
Besides that, the Messenger (pbuh) exposed them to several styles of recitation in
accordance to what he was taught by Jibrīl during revelation.
Generally, in the Sciences of the Qur‟ān (Ūlum al-Qur‟ān), these diverse styles
of Qur‟ān recitations are known as the Science of Qirā‟āt.2 This knowledge is
important for various reasons, one of which is that it constitutes a source of
understanding different meanings of the verses by the Muslim Exegetes (Mufassirīn)
in the knowledge of Qur‟ānic interpretation (Tāfsīr al-Qur‟ān), to interpret the Qur‟ān
1 al-Anbiyā‟: 107.
2 Science of Qirā‟āt is a branch of the Sciences of the Qur‟ān and it should be learned both in its
theoretical and practical form. In the theoretical aspect, it comprises of the definition of Qirā‟āt
development of this knowledge, biography of scholars in Science of Qirā‟āt and discipline of Qirā‟āt
(Uṣūl al-Qirā‟āt). The practical aspect is one that will be taught via face-to-face recitation and oral
examinations with the diverse types of recitations that are authorised and recognised by the scholars in
the Science of Qirā‟āt according to Uṣūl al- Qirā‟āt.
2
based on its appropriate situation or wāqīʻ of the community and society.3
It
demonstrates the facilative character of the Qur‟ān by its diversity of meanings
through the diversity of recitations.4 For instance, Surah al-Jumu‛ah, the word fās‛ū
literally means „hasten‟, however in other variant readings (Qirā‟āt) used fāmḍū (فاسعوا)
.does not reflect to the same meaning (فامضوا)5 This shows the flexibility of the word in
the Qur‟ān through the variant readings (Qirā‟āt) that complete the meaning of the
revelation.
The interest in the Science of Qirā‟āt among Malaysians was influenced by the
evolution of Islamic media both in printed and electronic forms.6 These developments
show the demand inspired by the society to strengthen Islamic knowledge and
education in Malaysia. There are several high-rated local Islamic television
programmes such as Adik-adikku (My Brothers and Sisters), Imam Muda (Young
Imam), Pencetus Ummah (Ummatic Reformer) and others that promote the Science of
Qirā‟āt. In particular, the programme Akademi Al-Quran (Academy of al-Qur‟ān)7 has
proven as an effective means to introduce the Science of Qirā‟āt to Malaysian.
According to local newspaper Utusan Malaysia, the rating of viewers for the third
season of Akademi Al-Quran has increased to 800,000 from 500,000 weekly,
compared to the viewers in the second season. During the finale of the first season, the
rating scored almost 900,000 viewers followed by 1.3 and 1.7 million viewers for the
3 Al-Nabhan, Muhammad Faruq, Muqaddimah fī al-Dirāsāt al-Qur‟ānīyyah (Rabat: Wizārat al-Awqāf
wa-al-Shu‟ūn al-Islāmīyah, al-Mamlakah al-Maghribīyah, 1995), 280. 4 Ibid.
5 ( لاة من ي وم الجمعة فاسعوا إلى ذكر الل وذروا ال تم ت علمون ب يع يا أي ها الذين آمنوا إذا نودي للص ر لكم إن كن لكم خي ذ ) (al-Jumu‟ah:9)
6 The evolution of Islamic media is the process of formation of Islamic content or element within the
media (communication); Media is a tool used to store and convey information either in printed form
(newspaper, magazine, and article) or electronic form (television, computer and others). 7 “Akademi Al-Quran” or AQ is a reality TV programme broadcast presented by TV9 starting in 2006
until 2010. This programme started with auditions across the country to find the best reciter and
qāriah.The finals was divided into four zones and from the auditions and 87 contestants were selected
for the screening. A total of 12 were selected as finalists of the first season. These finalists were given
challenges in performing their recitation by reciting various styles of Qirā‟āt.
3
second and third seasons respectively.8 Such is substantial statistical evidence of an
increase in public curiosity in the Science of Qirā‟āt, as channeled through
communication and media technologies.
In this regard, the Internet has been proven as one of the most effective
learning and teaching service providers. It may not replace the role of school or
university, but can be the best alternative teaching provider to beginners who have no
opportunity for formal education. In their article entitled, “Creating and Testing a
Science in English Website for Malaysian Secondary One Students, (2006)” Thang
Siew Ming and Delia L. Olaybal justified that websites are more effective means of
teaching and learning compared to ordinary or traditional learning and teaching
methods due to its greater interactivity. This study emphasises that websites can be the
most efficient medium to convey information or knowledge in the contemporary era to
simplify the learning process.9
The current educational systems in many developed countries encourage
lecturers and teachers to use teaching aids to facilitate student understanding of the
content of the lesson in an interesting manner. Muhammad Hafiz Saleh, Abd
Muhaimin Ahmad and Azman Alias (2011) highlight that, besides using common
teaching aids such as Microsoft PowerPoint and Flash Quran, it is strongly
recommended to also use websites or personal blogs, as they are considered
alternative teaching aids that are effective in the learning process.10
8 Metra Syahril Mohamed, “Fakhrul bangkit daripada kegagalan,” Utusan Malaysia, 26 June, 2008,
<http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/info.asp?y=2008&dt=0624&pub=Utusan_Malaysia&sec=Hiburan
&pg=hi_01.htm#ixzz2sV8ikOYb> (Accessed on 10 June 2014). 9 Thang, Siew Ming & Olaybal, Delia L., Creating And Testing A Science In English Website For
Malaysian Secondary One Students, Malaysian Online Journal of Instructional Technology (MOJIT) ,
Vol. 3, No.1, 36-42, via UKM, < http://www.ukm.my/smthang/pdf/2006_2.pdf > (Accessed on 10 June
2014). 10
Muhammad Hafiz Saleh, Abd Muhaimin Ahmad and Azman Alias, Keberkesanan Mempelajari Ilmu
Qiraat: Antara Harapan, Cabaran dan Penyelesaian Masalah, National Seminar on Qiraat, 19
November 2011 Organised by Kuliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, 6.
4
Based on the above discussion, it is important to identify the contents representing
the Science of Qirā‟āt that can be introduced to beginners in Malaysia. Furthermore, a
guideline or evaluation should be given in order to ascertain which one of these
websites offer authentic and relevant content or material related to the Science of
Qirā‟āt or not.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Referring to the success of five seasons of Akademi Al-Quran, it is undeniable that
knowledge on the Science of Qirā‟āt has spread among the Malaysian Muslim public.
The Malaysian Muslim public have begun to seek and learn this knowledge in various
places such as in mosques (masājid), Qur‟an recitation classes conducted by those
who have background in the Science of Qirā‟āt and extra programmes conducted by
several local higher institutions of learning.
Living in an era of communication technology, people prefer to search for
information through the Internet. This is due to the fact that websites have become the
most favourable method in information searching and retrieval due to its simplicity.
Websites offer information on the Science of Qirā‟āt in different languages including
English, Arabic and Malay. However, most of these websites are very general and are
not solely focused on the Science of Qirā‟āt. Based on the researcher‟s observation,
users have to explore the entire website in order to gain information related to the
Science of Qirā‟āt.
Furthermore, the information provided by certain websites is questionable in
terms of its ability to provide an adequate overview of the Science of Qirā‟āt while
the presentation or interface of the website may also affect the user-friendliness,
which will in-turn, affect the proper retrieval and understanding of the content. This
5
might be due to the arrangement, the level of difficulty and the presentation of
content, all of which may affect the process of understanding the Science of Qirā‟āt.
Most of the existing websites do not provide information and facts of this knowledge
in an interactive manner. Several websites use only written or printable explanations
or audio presentations to illustrate the different styles of recitation.
In view of the above, a systematic analysis and evaluation are required for the
selected websites to promote more comprehensive, practical and reliable website
content, with interactive appearance. It is hoped that the current study will contribute
to a comprehensive improvement on the matter, thereby directly assisting in
simplifying the process of learning and understanding the Science of Qirā‟āt for
beginners.
1.3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
The research questions of the study are:
1. What is Science of Qirā‟āt?
2. How has information and communication technology influenced the
Science of Qirā‟āt?
3. What are the effective mechanisms to disseminate reliable information
related to Science of Qirā‟āt through websites?
1.4 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
The study aims to achieve the following objectives:
1. To introduce the true meaning of Science of Qirā‟āt for beginners in
Malaysia.
6
2. To analyse the influence of information and communication technology in
the Science of Qirā‟āt.
3. To identify effective mechanism to disseminate reliable information on the
Science of Qirā‟āt through websites.
1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
In Malaysia, the Science of Qirā‟āt is gaining the public interest rapidly. The
dissemination of this knowledge has been progressing from informal education in
which classes are held in mosques, and private classes, to formal education such as
diplomas in Qirā‟āt for the public. More specific progress can be seen in government
religious schools, where the Science of Qirā‟āt has become an important focus in
Qur‟ān and Sunnah studies, especially in higher learning institutions. This indicates
the public eagerness in discovering something that Muslims had never come across in
their lives. Even during the lifetime of the Prophet (pbuh), the Sahabah used to
express their disagreement against the variant readings of Qur‟ānic recitation recited
by another Sahabah. To them, that variant reading is “strange” as they never heard it
from the Prophet (pbuh). They had to meet the Prophet (pbuh) to seek clarification on
that matter, and the Prophet (pbuh) said to them that such a variant reading is valid as
it was taught to him by the angel of revelation, Jibrīl (as). The Prophet‟s explanation
on that matter has resolved the dispute among the Sahabah. In the Malaysian context,
this strange occurrence also triggered Malaysian curiosity through the successful of
five seasons of a television programme named Akademi Al-Quran broadcasted on
local Malaysia television between 2006 until 2010.
This proposed study seeks to provide an overview of the introduction of the
Science of Qirā‟āt and the development of websites as a reference tool in the learning
7
process. The findings and recommendations from the researcher‟s study pursued to
improve the content and its interface of the selected websites offering information on
the Science of Qirā‟āt.
1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW
There are several types of research conducted on the Science of Qirā‟āt in Malaysia
and most of them focus on the teaching and learning aspects of the Science of Qirā‟āt
or the research related to the study of tafsīr. However, presently there is no research
regarding the content of websites related to this science. According to the analysis on
the existing research related to the topic, there are several loopholes that one yet to be
studied, especially in analysing and evaluating the information provided in websites
regarding the introduction of the Science of Qirā‟āt. The following researchers
discuss the introduction of the Science of Qirā‟āt as a subject offered in higher
institutions of learning in Malaysia:
Muhammad Hafiz bin Saleh 11
in his thesis entitled “Comparative study on the
Science of Qirā‟āt in Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia”, focuses on the
comparative study of the Science of Qirā‟āt in selected higher education institutions
in Malaysia.12
In the beginning of his thesis, he states the background of the Science
of Qirā‟āt and the development of this discipline in Malaysia. However, his research
emphasizes on the methodology of its teaching in higher institutions in Malaysia and
the challenges faced by academicians in teaching this subject. As it stated the blog and
website as one of the methods of teaching for this subject, this study will analyse the
11
Muhammad Hafiz Saleh, Comparative Study on the Science of Qirā'āt in Higher Education
Institutions in Malaysia, (Master Dissertation, IIUM, 2010), 1-5. 12
The Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia have been selected are University of Malaya (UM),
National University of Malaysia (UKM) and Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM).
8
content on the Science of Qirā‟āt that is suitable and relevant for beginners in
Malaysia.
Besides research on the curriculum aspect, the greater part of research done in
this area was on the comparison of different recitations in the Science of Qirā‟āt.
Researchers focused on selected schools of Qirā‟āt (such as Qirā‟āt Nāfiʻ, Qirā‟āt
„Āṣim and etc) without comparing to all the schools of Qirā‟āt (Qirā‟āt al-Sabʿ or
Qirā‟āt al-ʻAshr).
Other than that, there are several researches examining the implications of
variants readings among the Qirā‟āt scholars in understanding and interpreting the
meaning of Qur‟ānic verses in classical and modern Qur‟ānic exegesis. There are
significant consequences upon the interrelation of Qur‟ānic verses, where through
these variants readings (including the Qirā‟āt al-Shādhdhah) it is able to tarjīḥ the
khilāf among the scholars and also clarify certain rulings in the Qur‟ānic verse.
Hafiz Anwar bin Abdullah in his research, “Ilm al- Qirā‟āt wa Āthārihi fī
Fahm al- Qur‟ān, Dirāsah Taḥlīliyyah” 13
, examined the different approaches of „Ilm
al- Qirā‟āt in understanding the Qur‟ān, as well as how different recitations provide
different meanings of the verses. He highlighted the influence and acceptance of
Muslim scholars and orientalists‟ views toward this knowledge. The aim of this study
is to explain that various ways of recitation or Qirā‟āt could lead to different
meanings but not in contradiction with the general meaning of Qur‟ānic verses. He
further analysed the importance of this knowledge as a medium for better
understanding Qur‟ānic verses especially in modern tafsīr. Hafiz also included the
scholars‟ opinions from the mufassirīn (exegetes), fuqaha‟ (jurists), Orientalists and
others in dealing with this science. In conjunction with the previous discussion, the
13
Hafiz Anwar Abdullah, „Ilm al- Qirā‟āt wa Atharihi fī Fahm al-Qur‟ān Dirāsah Taḥlīliyyah, (Master
Dissertation, IIUM, 2010), 1-4.
9
current research focuses on the categories of Qirā‟āt and the basic discipline of
Qirā‟āt (Uṣūl al- Qirā‟āt) for each transmitter.
Ibrahim Ahmad Subki in Athar al-Qirā‟āt fī tafsīr al-Qur‟ān al-Karīm:
Dirāsah Taḥlīliyyah fī tafsīr al-Imām al-Ṭabarī Li sūrah al-Baqarah (The Influence of
Qirā‟āt on Qur‟ānic Exegesis: An Analytical Study of Imām Ṭabarī‟s Exegesis of
sūrah al-Baqarah)14
analysed the implications of variant reading in the interpretation
of Qur‟ānic verses. The study focused on sūrah al-Baqarah with reference to Imām
Ṭabarī‟s interpretation and explanation in terms of the Arabic language, syntax,
morphology and Sharīʻah rulings. He highlighted the influence of Qirā‟āt on Sharīʻah
such as the Islamic criminal law. He found that Imām Ṭabarī utilised the Science of
Qirā‟āt to its full extent to benefit the Ummah due to his extraordinary knowledge. He
also highlighted on the meaning of al- Qirā‟āt al-Ṣahīḥah, al- Qirā‟āt al-Shādhah and
the methodology of Imām Ṭabarī‟ in Qur‟ānic exegesis. He also gave various
examples of the effects of al- Qirā‟āt in Qur‟ānic exegesis from the perspective of
Imām Ṭabarī.
The above studies discuss the relationship between the implication of various
Qur‟ānic recitations that lead to different meanings and interpretation in the Qur‟ānic
exegesis. Furthermore, both studies focused on the examples of recitation of various
Qirā‟āt according to the area of their discussion as mentioned above. However, they
do not provide any explanation on the methodological aspect of Qirā‟āt (Manāhij al-
Qirā‟āt in their discussion. This current study will explain the discipline of the
Science of Qirā‟āt, specifically the seven recitations (Qirā‟āt al-Sabʻ).
14
Ibrahim Ahmad Subki, Athar al- Qirā‟āt fī tafsīr al- Qur‟ān al-Karīm: Dirāsah Taḥlīliyyah fī tafsīr
al-Imām al-Ṭabarī li sūrah al-Baqarah, (Master Dissertation, IIUM, 2010), 1-5.
10
In addition to the above thesis and dissertations, there are several papers
presented in the seminar on the Science of Qirā‟āt to support the significance of the
current research.
Siti Intan Dahlia Mohammad Harun 15
presented her research during the
National Seminar on Qirā‟āt. She mentioned that the Science of Qirā‟āt is essential to
the Science of Qur‟ān apart from interpretation and translation of the Qur‟ān. This
paper provides an overview of the development of the Science of Qirā‟āt in Malaysia
by comparing several Qur‟ānic educational institutions such as the Darul Quran under
Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM), Kolej Pengajian Islam Johor
(MARSAH), Kolej Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Selangor (KUIS) and others. This
study identified the realities, needs and challenges of learning the Science of Qirā‟āt
in higher educational institutions in Malaysia. Currently, this knowledge is considered
an exclusive subject taught to those who specialised or a registered in Taḥfīẓ
Institutions (Maahad Tahfīz al-Quran wa al-Qiraat). This should be a prerequisite for
students to study other sciences related to Qur‟ānic Studies and it is strongly
recommended that this subject should be offered to all students of Islamic studies
regardless of their specialisation. Siti suggested that in order to introduce the Science
of Qirā‟āt in a broader scope, it should be introduced to the public and translation of
Arabic books to Malay should be done. This is important in order to provide
references to all students of Islamic studies including those in jurisprudence, Arabic
language and literature, theology and human sciences.
Muhammad Hafiz Saleh in his paper entitled, “Keberkesanan Mempelajari
Ilmu Qiraat: Antara Harapan, Cabaran dan Penyelesaian Masalah” (The effectiveness
15
Siti Intan Dahlia Mohammad Harun, “Perkembangan Ilmu Qiraat di Malaysia dan Keperluannya di
Institut Pengajian Tinggi”, National Seminar on Qiraat, 19 November 2011 Organised by Kuliyyah of
Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Science, International Islamic University of Malaysia, 1-15.
11
of Learning Science of Qirā‟āt: Its Future, Challenges and Solution of Problem) 16
highlighted that the Science of Qirā‟āt is associated with various disciplines of
knowledge, particularly in the interpretation of the Qur‟ān. This paper mentioned the
challenges and solutions in learning the Science of Qirā‟āt and the prerequisites that
must be met before any individual can pursue this knowledge. Without these
prerequisites, one would find it difficult to study this science. According to him, the
development of the science of Qirā‟āt should not be limited to students in schools and
higher education institution but should be exposed to all Muslims. This paper included
blogs as an effective medium for disseminating knowledge of the Science of Qirā‟āt.
Due to this reason, it is important to make sure the content of the blogs consist a
reliable and relevant and this study will discuss on how to analyse the content on the
websites or blogs as a reliable source by examining several aspects and fulfill few
requirements.
A brief analysis of the awareness of the Malaysian public towards the Science
of Qirā‟āt can be identified through its development in Malaysia. According to Siti
Intan Dahlia Mohammad Harun,17
the development of the Science of Qirā‟āt started
with the establishment of Maahad Tahfiz Al-Quran Wal-Qiraat (now known as Darul
Quran, JAKIM) in 1966. In its first intake, the college had received only eight
students from different regions in Malaysia. Darul Quran was the only institution that
offered the Science of Qirā‟āt as a subject during that time. Currently, in addition to
Darul Quran JAKIM, several institutions offer the Science of Qirā‟āt in their
curriculum such as Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Kolej Pengajian Islam
Johor (MARSAH) and Kolej Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Selangor (KUIS) among
16
Muhammad Hafiz Saleh et al., Keberkesanan Mempelajari Ilmu Qiraat…, 7-12. 17
Siti Intan Dahlia Mohammad Harun, 3-5.