Waqf signs (ج، قلى، صلى، لا، م) in the Quran guide reciters on where to pause or stop during recitation, a key aspect of Tajweed called "الوقف والابتداء" in Arabic. However, their placement varies across Mushafs due to differing scholarly interpretations and regional traditions.
Fun fact: early Quranic manuscripts didn't include dots, diacritical marks (Tashkeel), or waqf signs, as native Arabs didn't need them. However, as Islam spread and non-Arab converts began learning Arabic, there was a need for enhanced clarity in distinguishing between similar-looking letters. Therefore, dots, diacritical marks and waqf signs were gradually incorporated into Quranic manuscripts to facilitate accurate recitation and comprehension.
Stages of Quran Transcription:
During the time of the prophet ﷺ (Text only)
During the time of Ali ibn Abi Talib (Text + Tashkeel/diacritical marks)
During the time of the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan (Text + Tashkeel/diacritical marks + dots)
Waqf signs were added to the Quran later on.
Images source: easyquran
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