Nafi' al-Madani
Nafi' ibn Abd ar-Rahman ibn Abi Nu'aym al-Laythi (70-169 AH / 689-785 CE) was one of the most prominent scholars of Qira'at in Madinah. He learned the Quran from 70 of the Tabi'in who had learned from the Companions of the Prophet ﷺ.
Early Life and Legacy
Born around 70 AH in Madinah, Nafi' grew up immersed in Islamic scholarship. He studied Quranic recitation under seventy Tabi'un who had learned directly from the Prophet's companions. Highly respected by contemporary scholars, his distinctive recitation method was preserved through his two primary students, Qalun and Warsh, whose styles remain influential throughout the Muslim world today.
Did You Know?
He was the Imam of the Prophet's Mosque for 60 years after the death of Abu Ja'far Yazid al-Madani
Highly respected for his impeccable articulation and melodious voice
It was said that whenever he spoke, the fragrance of musk would emanate from his mouth
When asked if he used perfume before reciting, he replied that he saw the Prophet ﷺ in a dream who recited into his mouth, and since then, the fragrance remained
Transmission
Qalun
This recitation is widely practiced in regions like Libya and parts of Tunisia
His full name was Abu Musa ‘Isa ibn Mina, but he was known by his nickname Qalun, which means “good” in Roman. Qalun was born in Medina and was one of the most prominent students of Imam Nafiʽ. He was known for his clear and precise recitation, which is still followed by many Muslims. Qalun passed away in the year 220 AH.
Warsh
Known for the popular recitation, used predominantly in North and West Africa
Uthman ibn Sa’id al-Qutbi, known as Warsh, was another significant student of Imam Nafiʽ. He was born in Egypt in 110 AH (728 CE) and traveled to Madinah to study under Nāfiʽ and then returned to Egypt to propagate the riwāyah in the North African regions upon his return. Warsh’s recitation became the most popular in these regions. Warsh passed away in the year 197 AH.