Why Noon Sakinah Rules Matter

Noon sakinah (نون ساكنة) and tanwin (تنوين) are among the most frequently encountered Tajwid rules in Quran recitation. Understanding the four rules for noon sakinah/tanwin is essential for correct recitation.

The Four Rules

• Izhaar (إظهار) – Clear pronunciation: When followed by throat letters (أ ه ع ح غ خ), pronounce the noon clearly
• Idghaam (إدغام) – Merging: When followed by يرملون letters, merge the noon into the following letter. With ghunnah: ي ن م و. Without ghunnah: ل ر
• Iqlaab (إقلاب) – Transformation: When followed by ب, change the noon to meem sound with ghunnah
• Ikhfaa (إخفاء) – Concealment: When followed by the remaining 15 letters, partially hide the noon with nasal sound

Memory Tip

The letters of Izhaar spell أحرف حلقية (throat letters). The letters of Idghaam with ghunnah spell يَنْمُو (he grows).