Idgham Kamil Vs Idgham Naqis

Idgham Kamil Vs Idgham Naqis are two important and detailed rules in the science of Tajweed, and knowing the difference between them reflects how well a person understands proper Quran recitation.

 In Arabic, Idgham means merging or blending, and in Tajweed, it refers to the merging of a non vowel letter with a vowel letter so that they become one sometimes fully merged, and other times partially.

 In this article we will explain the 2 types of Idgham through clear examples from the Quran, show you how to recognize them in the text, and explore other subtypes of Idgham like Mutamathilain, Mutajanisain, and Mutaqaribain. 

What Is Idgham Kamil?

Idgham Kamil is one of the two main types of Idgham in the rules of Tajweed, and just like its name suggests, it means "complete merging."

In simple terms, it’s when one letter is fully absorbed into the next letter, to the point that you don’t hear the first letter at all when reciting. The sound of the second letter completely takes over.

For this kind of merging to be considered Kamil (complete), two conditions must be met:

1. The first letter must disappear entirely, you don't pronounce it at all.

2. No part of the first letter’s sound or characteristics should remain after merging.

That means what you actually hear is only the second letter, usually with a slightly stronger or emphasized sound. Study the life of the Prophet with our Seerah course and strengthen your faith.

Sign Of Idgham Kamil In The Quran

One of the most common questions students of Tajweed course ask is: "How can I spot Idgham Kamil when reading from the Mushaf?"The great thing is, once you know what to look for, it becomes easy to recognize.

In the Uthmani script (the standard script used in most printed Qurans), the sign of Idgham Kamil is very specific and visual:

• The first letter is usually saakin, that does not carry any Sukoon ( ْ ) or any symbol at all.

• The second letter must have a Shaddah ( ّ ) above it, along with a vowel (Fatha, Kasra, or Damma). 

Join our Quran Memorization Course to enhance your connection with the Holy Quran.

Read also: Idgham in Tajweed

Examples Of Idgham Kamil

Idgham Kamil is essential for proper Quranic recitation and correct pronunciation in everyday speech. Let’s go through some examples to understand how this rule is applied, both in the Quran and in daily conversations.

Example from the Quran:

“وَقُل رَّبِّ أَنزِلْنِي مُنزَلًا مُبَارَكًا وَأَنتَ خَيْرُ الْمُنْزِلِينَ”
(Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:29)

In this example, the sakin letter “ل” (lam) in “وَقُل” is completely merged into the following letter in “رَّبِّ”. It’s as if the recitation is saying “وَقُل رَبِّ” without pronouncing the lam in “وَقُل” distinctly, blending it with the next sound, creating a smoother, seamless transition between the two letters.

Example from Everyday Arabic Speech:

“قد تذهب الفتاة”
In everyday conversation, the silent letter “د” (dal) in “قد” is fully merged with the following sound, so in casual speech, it sounds like “قد تذهب الفتاة” without clearly pronouncing the dal, making the speech smoother and faster.

What Is Idgham Naqis?

Idgham Naqis is a crucial concept in Tajweed, the art of proper Quranic recitation. The term "Naqis" means "incomplete" or "deficient," and in the context of Tajweed, it refers to a type of partial merging of letters. Unlike Idgham Kamil (the complete merging), Idgham Naqis occurs when one letter is partially assimilated into another, and certain characteristics of the first letter still remain.

This partial assimilation typically involves Noon Saakinah (نْ) or Tanween (ً ٍ ٌ), and is followed by certain specific letters, most commonly Ya (ي) or Waw (و). When this happens, the nasal sound, or Ghunnah, is pronounced, creating a distinctive resonance that helps smooth the recitation. Learn Quranic Arabic Course to better understand the sacred text and its deep meanings.

Sign Of Idgham Naqis In The Quran

In the Quran, Idgham Naqis can be recognized by the presence of Noon Saakinah or Tanween followed by the letters Ya or Waw. The primary feature that marks Idgham Naqis is the nasal sound (Ghunnah) that emerges during the merging process. 

This nasal resonance can be heard clearly, as it is a characteristic of the first letter that is not fully dropped but rather blended into the second, so you can identify it through:

• Noon Saakinah (نْ) or Tanween (ً ٍ ٌ) is followed by Ya (ي) or Waw (و).

• A nasal sound (Ghunnah) will be pronounced when these letters merge.

For example, in the phrase "من يعمل" (min ya’mal), the Noon Saakinah in "من" merges with the Ya in "يعمل," producing a clear nasal sound. The reciter does not drop the Noon entirely but rather blends it with the Ya, creating a smooth transition. 

Improve your language skills with our Modern Standard Arabic Course.

Examples Of Idgham Naqis

To understand Idgham Naqis fully, let’s explore some practical examples from the Quran:

1. Example from Quran:

• “مِن وَ لِي” (Min wali)

In this case, the Noon Saakinah in "من" merges into the Waw in "ولي" with a nasal sound, as the reciter transitions smoothly between the two letters.

• “فَمَن يَـعْمَلْ” (Faman ya'mal)

The Noon Saakinah in "فَمَن" merges into the Ya in "يعمل" with a nasal sound, creating a smooth flow in the recitation.

• “مِن وَاقٍ” (Min waqin)

Here, the Noon Saakinah in "من" merges into the Waw in "واقٍ," with a nasal sound, maintaining the flow of the verse.

• “وَلِيٍّ وَلاَ” (Walee'n wa laa)

The Tanween in "وَلِيٍّ" merges into the Waw in "وَلاَ," producing a nasal sound, enhancing the fluidity of the recitation.

An Example From Everyday Arabic Speech:

“من يأكل اللحم يبني عضلاته”

Here, the Noon sound (ن) is dropped, but the Ghunnah is kept for two Harakat.

Our Online Noorani Qaida Course is perfect for those starting to learn Arabic.

Idgham Kamil Vs Idgham Naqis

Learning the difference between Idgham Kamil and Idgham Naqis isn’t just about memorizing rules, it’s about reciting the Quran the way it was meant to be recited. Each type of Idgham carries a unique rhythm and sound that adds beauty, clarity, and flow to your recitation.

In Idgham Kamil, the first letter is completely dropped into the second, while in Idgham Naqis, part of the first letter’s characteristics still remain. 

Read about: Idgham With Ghunnah and Idgham Without Ghunnah

Other Sub-Types Of Idgham

Idgham (merging letters) is a key concept in Tajweed and can be categorized into two main types: Idgham Kamil (Complete Idgham) and Idgham Naqis (Incomplete Idgham). Each of these types has three sub-types based on two important factors:

1. Place of articulation

2. Characteristics of the letters

These sub-types are: Mutamathilain, Mutajanisain, and Mutaqaribain. Let’s take a look at the subtle differences and how they are applied in Quranic recitation.

1. Idgham Mutamathilain (Identical Letters)

Idgham Mutamathilain occurs when the first sakin (silent) letter and the second mutaharik (vowelized) letter are exactly the same in both their place of articulation and their characteristics. This is why it is called "Mutamathilain" (identical letters).

Examples from the Quran:

• “ٱذْهَب بِّكِتَـٰبِى” 

• “أَيْنَمَا تَكُونُوا۟ يُدْرِككُّمُ ٱلْمَوْتُ” 

In these verses, Idgham is applied by dropping the sound of Baa (ب) in “بِّكِتَـٰبِى” and the sound of Kaf (ك) in “تَكُونُوا۟” as both letters are identical.

Exception:

Idgham is not applied when the first letter is one of the Madd (vowel-lengthening) letters: Waw (و), Ya (ي), and Alif (ا). Despite looking similar, their places of articulation differ.

Example:

• “ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟” 

Here, the first Waw (و) in “ءَامَنُوا۟” is pronounced from the throat, whereas the second Waw (و) in “وَعَمِلُوا۟” is pronounced from the lips. Therefore, Idgham is not applied.

2. Idgham Mutajanisain (Similar Letters)

Idgham Mutajanisain occurs when the first sakin letter and the second mutaharik letter have the same place of articulation but differ in their characteristics. Hence, this type is called Mutajanisain (similar letters).

Examples from the Quran:

• “يَـٰبُنَىَّ ٱرْكَب مَّعَنَا”

• “هَمَّت طَّآئِفَتَانِ” 

In these verses, full Idgham is applied, where the sound of Baa (ب) in "ٱرْكَب" and the sound of Teh (ت) in "هَمَّت" are merged and dropped.

When is Idgham Mutajanisain Naqis Applied?

Idgham Mutajanisain Naqis occurs when the first letter retains one of its features, but it does not fully merge. For example:

• “لَئِنۢ بَسَطتَ إِلَىَّ يَدَكَ” 

In this case, the letters Teh (ت) and Teh (ط) share the same place of articulation but differ in their characteristics. The Teh (ط) is dropped but retains its feature of elevation (Istila) when pronounced, hence it is called Idgham Mutajanisain Naqis (incomplete merging).

3. Idgham Mutaqaribain (Close Letters)

Idgham Mutaqaribain occurs when the first sakin letter and the second mutaharik letter are close in their place of articulation, but differ slightly in their characteristics. This type is called Mutaqaribain (close letters).

Examples from the Quran:

• “مِن لَّدُنَّا” 

• “بَلْ رَانَ”

In these examples, the Noon (ن) and Laam (ل) sounds are merged completely, as they are close in their articulation, and the sounds are dropped.

Learn Idgham Naqis with Expert Quran Teachers at Al-Walid Academy

To truly master Idgham Naqis, you need the right guidance from experienced teachers. At Al-Walid Academy, we offer specialized Tajweed courses that dive deep into the rules of Idgham, including Idgham Naqis, to help you perfect your Quran recitation.

Our courses are designed for everyone, whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your skills.

Why Choose Al-Walid Academy?

• Learn from Certified Native Tutors: Our teachers are highly qualified and passionate about teaching Tajweed.

• Flexible Scheduling: We understand you have a busy life, so our classes fit into your schedule, no matter where you are.

• Affordable and Accessible: We believe that high-quality education should be within everyone’s reach, which is why we keep our classes affordable.

• Learn from Anywhere: No matter where you are in the world, you can join our classes online.

Our Courses Include:

• Arabic Noorani Qaida: The perfect starting point to build a solid foundation in Quran reading.

• Quran lessons for Kids: Fun, interactive lessons to help kids connect with the Quran.

• Tajweed Rules for Kids: Teach your children how to recite the Quran beautifully and confidently.

• Quran Hifz for Kids: A step-by-step approach to help children memorize the Quran.

• Quran Classes for Adults: Whether you're new to the Quran or looking to improve your recitation, we’ve got you covered.

• Online Arabic Courses: Learn the language of the Quran to better understand its message.

• Islamic Studies Course: Explore important topics related to Islam, from theology to Quranic studies.

Ready to Start Your Quranic Journey?

No matter where you’re starting from, Al-Walid Academy is here to help you grow in your Quranic journey. Sign up for a free trial today and let this Ramadan 2026 be the turning point in your recitation and understanding of the Quran.

The Main Differences Between The Idgham Kamil And Idgham Naqis

Understanding the differences between Idgham Kamil (Complete Idgham) and Idgham Naqis (Incomplete Idgham) can make your Quran recitation more accurate. The table below highlights the key distinctions:

Gain a deep understanding of Islamic law with our Fiqh Islamic Jurisprudence course.

The Main Differences Between The Three Sub-Types Of Idgham

 Below is a simple comparison of different types of Idgham, Idgham Muthahlik, Idgham Mutajanis, and Idgham Mutakareb:

Expand your knowledge with our Islamic Studies Course and explore various Islamic topics.

Conclusion

Understanding the subtleties of Idgham and its different types is crucial for mastering the art of Tajweed and perfecting Quranic recitation, each type plays a unique role in enhancing the fluency and precision of reciting the Quran. 

By delving into these distinctions, you not only refine your recitation but also deepen your connection with the sacred text. Remember, proper guidance from qualified teachers and continuous practice are key to mastering these essential rules. So, keep learning, stay dedicated, and may your journey in understanding the beauty of Quranic recitation be blessed.

FQAs

What are the two types of Idgham?

Idgham is divided into two types, depending on the presence or absence of ghunnah (nasalization):

1. Idgham with Ghunnah: This occurs when the sakin letter (Noon Sakinah or Tanween) is followed by one of the four letters (ي, ن, م, و). In this case, the sound merges smoothly with nasalization (ghunnah) for two beats.

2. Idgham without Ghunnah: This happens when the sakin letter is followed by either Laam (ل) or Ra (ر), and the nasalization is not applied in the merging.

What are the 4 letters of Idgham?

Idgham with Ghunnah happens when the Noon Sakinah (نْ) or Tanween (ً ٍ ٌ) is followed by one of the four letters in the word "يَنْمُو" (these are: ي, ن, م, و). In this case, the sound of the first letter merges smoothly into the next one, and the nasal sound (ghunnah) remains for two beats.

What is the difference between Sukoon and Sakin?

Sukoon (ـــْــ) or Jazm is the symbol used to indicate that a letter has no vowel sound. Letters with Sukoon cannot be recited alone and must be followed by a letter with a vowel sound. The letter carrying the Sukoon is called a "Sakin" letter. Importantly, a Sakin letter cannot begin a word.

What is the difference between Ikhfa and Idgham?

The main difference between Ikhfa and Idgham lies in how the sound of Noon Sakinah or Tanween is treated:

1. Ikhfa: This occurs when the Noon Sakinah (نْ) or Tanween (ً ٍ ٌ) is followed by a letter that requires the sound to be partially hidden. The nasal sound (ghunnah) remains for two beats, but the sound is not completely merged. The sound is softened, rather than fully integrated.

2. Idgham: On the other hand, Idgham occurs when the Noon Sakinah or Tanween is followed by specific letters (ي, ن, م, و), and the sound merges completely with the next letter. The nasal sound (ghunnah) is clearly present, and the sound is fully absorbed into the next letter, making it a more complete merging compared to Ikhfa.