One can take several steps to master the application of the rules of Tajweed, but an essential step that should not be discarded is understanding the rules of Madd. Madd is a seminal aspect of Tajweed because it maintains the rhythm and flow of the Quranic recitation. Madd is, in and of itself, not a difficult rule to master, but it requires an accurate understanding of its meaning, types, and conditions.
We will tackle one type of Madd, which is called Madd Iwad. In order to make it quite clear for readers, we will explain what is Madd Iwad in Tajweed, along with the necessary conditions for its application.
What is Madd Iwad in Tajweed?
Madd Iwad is one of the types of Madd Asli or natural Madd. Madd Asli refers to the natural elongation of Madd letters (و-ا-ي) for two Harakah regardless of external factors.
Madd Iwad, as a type of Madd Asli, occurs when a word ends with Tanween fath. The reciter practices this type of Madd in the case of pausing at this word. Thus, the Tanween is compensated for by Madd Alif for two Harakah.
When is Madd Iwad Applied?

Let’s wrap up the key conditions for applying Madd Iwad in Tajweed:
- The word ends with Tanween Fath
- The reciter stops after this word
- The reciter substitutes the Tanween for Madd Iwad, elongating Alif for two Harakahs only
Examples for Madd Iwad from the Quran
Here are examples from verses of the Quran where the reciter is required to practice Madd Iwad in case of pausing:
- (يا أيها الذين ءامنوا اتقوا الله وقولوا قولاً سديداً)
If the reciter pauses after (سديدا), they are required to omit the pronunciation of Tanween and end the word with Madd Alif for two Harakah
- (فإن الله كان بعباده بصيراً)
The word (بصيرا) occurs at the end of the verse, meaning that the reciter applies Madd Iwad at the end in case of stopping. However, if they continue reciting, they will have to apply the rules of Tanween depending on the first letter of the following word.
- (فإما يأتينكم مني هدىً)
Even in the case of the word (هدى), when the word does not end with a written alif, Madd Iwad is applied if the reciter pauses after this word. In case of continuation, the reciter would apply the rule of Ikhfaa in this verse since the following word is (فمن). Since it starts with faa ف, the Tanween is subject to the rule of Ikhfaa.
Exception to the Rule of Madd Iwad
The rule of Madd Iwad is not applied in the case of Taa ت, which denotes that the noun is feminine. Words like رحمة- نعمة end with this Taa. If such words end with Tanween Fath, the reciter does not apply the rule of Madd Iwad.
In case of pausing, words like (رحمة- نعمة) will end with the sound of haa saakin هاء ساكنة, which is similar to the sound of short breath. On the other hand, if the reciter continues, these words will be pronounced with the sound of Taa with Tanween Fath.
For example:
- (ربنا ءاتنا من لدنك رحمة وهيئ لنا من أمرنا رشداً)
If the reciter pauses after the word (رحمة), they have to make the sound of haa saakin. Whereas the sound of Taa, accompanied by Tanween Fath, should be made in case of continuing. Also, the reciter is required to observe the proper rule of Tanween, considering the letter that follows it; in this case, (و). Thus, the reciter needs to apply the rule of Idghaam with Ghunnah.
Tips to Practice Madd Iwad in Tajweed
Mastering the rule of Madd Iwad is similar to all other rules of Tajweed necessary for perfecting one’s recitation of the Quran. Here are some tips you can follow for better application of this rule:
1) Follow the Recitation of a Qari’
Choose a skilled Qari’ who is known for their accurate application of Tajweed rules and take notes on their application of Madd Iwad. Listen carefully to their recitation and attempt to copy it yourself.
2) Enroll in Online Tajweed Classes
Almuhammadi Academy is one of the online platforms providing learners with excellent means of learning Tajweed online. Following the guidance and instruction of expert tutors who are graduates of Al-Azhar University, you are guaranteed to gain a clearer understanding of Tajweed and hence, be better able to apply it while reciting the Quran.
3) Regular Practice
It goes without saying that the rules of Tajweed require a lot of repetition and practice in order for you to master them. Designate a portion of your study session for repetition and practice of Madd Iwad.
Conclusion
Learning the rules of Madd Iwad in Tajweed is a perfectly attainable goal on the condition that you take proper steps guided by reliable sources and the instruction of an expert egyptian quran tutor.
Recognize that the path to mastering the recitation of the Quran is not easy, but make your intention sincere for the sake of Allah SWT. This would definitely make it easier, and it would add to the reward of learning the Book of Allah. Take your first step today and check our online Tajweed courses at Almuhammadi Academy!