The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Ubayy, I was asked to recite the Qur'an and I was asked: 'In one mode or two modes?' The angel that accompanied me said: 'Say, in two modes', I said: 'In two modes', I was asked again: 'In two or three modes'. The matter reached up to seven modes. He then said: 'Each mode is sufficiently health-giving, whether you utter 'all-hearing and all-knowing' or instead 'all-powerful and all-wise'. This is valid until you finish the verse indicating punishment on mercy and finish the verse indicating mercy on punishment."
The Seven Modes of Qur'anic Recitation (Ahruf)
This hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud 1477 reveals the divine concession regarding variations in Qur'anic recitation. The seven modes (ahruf) refer to permissible variations in pronunciation, wording, and dialect while preserving the sacred text's meaning and authenticity.
Divine Accommodation for Ummah
Allah in His wisdom granted this flexibility to facilitate recitation for different Arab tribes with varying dialects. Each mode remains equally valid and complete, as the Prophet emphasized "each mode is sufficiently health-giving" - meaning each provides full spiritual benefit and guidance.
Scholarly Interpretation of Examples
The examples "all-hearing and all-knowing" versus "all-powerful and all-wise" demonstrate permissible substitution of divine attributes that convey similar meanings. This shows the variations maintain theological consistency while allowing linguistic diversity.
Contextual Integrity Preservation
The crucial condition "until you finish the verse indicating punishment on mercy" ensures no alteration changes the fundamental message. A verse about punishment must conclude as such, and mercy verses must maintain their merciful nature, preserving the Qur'an's legislative and moral integrity.
Contemporary Application
Today, the seven ahruf are preserved through the canonical readings (qira'at) transmitted via mutawatir chains. While most common today is Hafs 'an 'Asim, other authentic readings remain valid for prayer and study, reflecting the ongoing mercy of this divine accommodation.