Waqf (وقف) means stopping during Quran recitation. The Quran contains special stopping signs that tell the reciter when to stop, when to continue, and when there is a choice. Ignoring these signs can change the meaning of the verse.
The Six Waqf Signs
Waqf Lazim — Compulsory Stop
You MUST stop here. Continuing without stopping will change or corrupt the meaning of the verse.
Indicated by the letter م (meem) above the text
Waqf Mutlaq — Absolute Stop
Stopping is preferable (better to stop). You can continue but stopping is the better choice.
Indicated by the letter ط (ta) above the text
Waqf Jaiz — Permissible Stop
Stopping or continuing are both permissible. Both options are equally acceptable.
Indicated by the letter ج (jim) above the text
Wasl Awla — Better to Continue
Continuing is preferred. You can stop if you need to breathe, but continuing is better for the meaning.
Indicated by صلى above the text
La Waqf — Do Not Stop
Do NOT stop here. Stopping here would harm the meaning of the verse. Continue without stopping.
Indicated by لا above the text
Mujawwaz — Permissible but Continue Preferred
Stopping is permitted but continuing is preferable. Similar to Jaiz but with a slight preference for continuation.
Indicated by ز above the text
How to Stop Correctly (Waqf Procedure)
When stopping on any word: (1) The final vowel is dropped — the last letter becomes sakin (sukoon). (2) If the last letter has tanween fath (ً), it is pronounced as a long "aa". (3) If the word ends in ة (ta marbuta), it is pronounced as "h" when stopping.
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