The Importance of Ghunna (Nasal Sound) in Tajweed

When learning Tajweed, one of the first things students often come across is Ghunna, the nasal sound that gives certain letters a soft and extended hum. Although it may seem like a small detail, Ghunna plays a major role in preserving the beauty and accuracy of Quranic recitation. Ignoring it or applying it incorrectly can change the way words sound—and even affect the meaning.

What Is Ghunna?

Ghunna refers to a nasalised sound produced from the nose, lasting for about two counts (equal to saying “one–two” at a steady pace). It comes naturally when pronouncing the letters Meem (م) and Noon (ن), especially when these letters have a shaddah (ّ) or when they’re followed by certain other letters.

You’ll notice it in words like:

• إِنَّ (Inna)
• ثُمَّ (Thumma)

In both examples, the Ghunna is part of what makes the pronunciation smooth and correct.

Why Ghunna Matters

1. Part of the Sunnah of Recitation
   The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) recited the Quran with proper Tajweed, and Ghunna was part of his recitation. Following this style is a way of preserving his example.
2. Keeps the Meaning Clear
   Tajweed rules, including Ghunna, are not just for beauty. They protect the original wording of the Quran. An incorrect Ghunna—or skipping it altogether—can make a word sound like something else, which could lead to misunderstanding the message.
3. Improves Fluency and Flow
   Ghunna gives a natural rhythm to Quranic recitation. It helps in pausing and continuing smoothly, especially when reading long verses.
4. Required in Many Tajweed Rules
   Ghunna appears in rules such as:
   • Idghaam with Ghunna (merging with nasal sound)
   • Ikhfaa (hiding the Noon sound)
   • Iqlab (changing Noon to Meem sound with Ghunna)
   These rules show just how often Ghunna appears in everyday recitation.

Common Mistakes With Ghunna

• Overdoing it: Extending the sound longer than necessary.
• Underdoing it: Cutting it short or skipping the nasal sound.
• Pronouncing through the mouth: Ghunna should come from the nose only.

These mistakes often happen when learners haven’t been taught how to control their airflow between the nose and the mouth.

How to Improve Your Ghunna

• Practise with a teacher: A qualified teacher will correct your pronunciation and show you where the Ghunna naturally occurs.
• Listen to skilled reciters: Try listening to Qurra’ (expert reciters) like Sheikh Husary or Sheikh Minshawi. Pay attention to how they apply Ghunna.
• Record yourself: This can help you notice mistakes and improve over time.
• Repeat short phrases: Repetition builds muscle memory for nasal pronunciation.

Final Thoughts

Mastering Ghunna may seem like a small goal, but it’s a big step in reading the Quran the way it was meant to be read. It shows respect for Allah’s words, builds stronger Tajweed skills, and brings the reciter closer to the Sunnah of the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him).

Whether you’re just starting or refining your recitation, don’t overlook the power of this humble nasal sound. It’s more than just a rule—it’s a part of what makes the Quran a living miracle.