ghunna

Ghunna is a term used in Tajweed, the rules of Quranic recitation, referring to a nasal sound produced from the nose. It is a specific phonetic quality that accompanies certain Arabic letters. The primary letters associated with ghunna are the letter noon (ن) and the letter meem (م) when they carry a shaddah (a diacritical mark indicating doubling). It is also present in specific grammatical contexts for noon and meem, such as when they are followed by certain other letters in particular Tajweed rules.

The ghunna is not a separate letter but rather a characteristic of the sound of noon and meem in specific situations. Its correct pronunciation is crucial for accurate Quranic recitation, as it affects the overall melody and pronunciation of the words. The duration and intensity of the ghunna can vary depending on the specific Tajweed rule being applied. Mastering ghunna is considered an essential aspect of Tajweed for those aiming to recite the Quran as it was revealed. It is a subtle but important element of Arabic phonetics within the context of religious recitation.