Scholars Discuss Emotional Resonance in Quranic Recitation at Specialized Session

IQNA – Two Iranian scholars have explored emotional resonance and its effect on impactful Quran recitation in a specialized conference.

At the 19th Specialized Session of Quranic Scholars, Qaris, and Memorizers in Iran, Mehdi Daghaghaleh and Hassan Mokhtari presented a paper titled “Case Studies of Impactful Recitations Using Promotional Elements”.

In a workshop-style presentation, they analyzed notable recitations by prominent qaris from across the Islamic world. 

Daghaqaleh focused on the tonal and rhythmic aspects of recitation, explaining how mastery over Arabic language allows a reciter to tailor vocal delivery to the nature of the text.

“When reciting Quranic verses,” he noted, “a skilled qari ensures that declarative statements sound assertive, while interrogative sentences take on an appropriately questioning tone.”

He emphasized that the qari’s vocal precision and deliberate stress on key words can significantly enhance the delivery’s impact, reflecting the underlying message. 

Mokhtari, meanwhile, explored the technical nuances of voice modulation and its emotional resonance in recitation.

He described recitation as a potent tool for religious propagation, requiring the reciter to embody reverence, humility before God, and compassion for the audience.

“The primary medium for Quranic recitation is the voice,” he explained, “and while the melodic structures are defined within musical modes, the tonal color of the voice determines the emotional undertone.” 

He further elaborated on how qaris can adapt their vocal techniques to shift the emotional tone. “For example,” Mokhtari stated, “a mode typically associated with joy can, through subtle vocal adjustments, be rendered somber, evoking sorrow and reflection.” 

Mokhtari highlighted how skilled qaris employ voice production techniques and tonal variations to evoke specific emotional responses—ranging from reverence and fear to compassion and grief.

He shared rare audio examples of renowned qaris to illustrate how these methods can deeply resonate with listeners and convey the Quran's profound messages. 

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