Abu Jaafar
Abu Ja'far Yazid ibn al-Qa'qa' al-Madani (35-130 AH) was one of the ten recognized Qurra and a prominent scholar in Medina. Known for his precise recitation, he learned directly from several companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Early Life and Legacy
Abū Jaʽfar al-Madanī was born and raised in Medina, where he spent most of his life in the service of Islamic knowledge. His early connection with the Prophet’s companions, particularly Umm Salamah, left a profound impact on his spiritual life. He learned the Quran from notable companions such as ʽAbdullāh ibn ʽAbbās, ʽAbdullāh ibn ʽAyyāsh, and Abū Hurayrah, acquiring not only the Quranic recitations but also their deep understanding of the Quran’s meanings. His legacy lives on through his unique method of recitation, which was passed down through his students and remains one of the ten canonical Qirāʾāt.
Did You Know?
One of the earliest authorities on Quranic recitation in Madinah
Prayed 4 rakʽāt of tahajjud every night & made duʽā for the ummah
When prepared for burial, a bright light resembling a page of the Quran was seen between his neck and chest
Transmission
Ibn Wardan
He was considered to be an old companion of Nafi'
Abu Al-Haarith 'Eesaa bin Wardan Al-Medani was a prominent Quran reciter known for his precision. He completed his recitation under the guidance of Abu Ja'far and Shaybah and later recited fully to Naafiʽ, establishing himself as a close companion of the latter. Among his notable students were Ismail bin Ja'far and Qaloon. Ibn Wardan passed away in Medina around 160 A.H
Ibn Jammaz
Known for the popular recitation, used predominantly in North and West Africa
Abu Ar-Rabee' Sulayman bin Muslim bin Jammaaz Az-Zahree was a prominent reciter in Medina, known for his precision. He studied under Imam Abu Ja'far and Shaybah, and then recited his complete Qira’ah to Naafiʽ. Some of his notable students include Ismail bin Ja'far and Qutaybah bin Mahraan, who also presented their complete recitations to him. He passed away shortly after 170 A.H