Tajweed tool
Qur'an stopping (Waqf) signs
The small letters above the line in the Mushaf tell you where stopping is required, preferred or forbidden.
| Sign | Name | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| مـ | Waqf Lazim | Compulsory stop — continuing changes the meaning |
| لا | Waqf Mamnu' | Do not stop here |
| ج | Waqf Ja'iz | Stopping and continuing are both permitted |
| صلى | Al-Wasl Awla | Continuing is preferred |
| قلى | Al-Waqf Awla | Stopping is preferred |
| ∴ ∴ | Mu'anaqah | Stop at only one of the two marked places |
| س / سكتة | Saktah | Brief pause without taking a breath |
How to use this tool
- Find the symbol in your Mushaf.
- Check its meaning below.
- Plan your breathing around the permitted stops.
Frequently asked questions
What does لا mean above a verse?
Do not stop here — stopping can break the meaning. If you must breathe, go back and repeat from earlier.
What are the three dots repeated twice?
Mu'anaqah: stop at one of the two positions, but not both.