What is the ruling on reciting the Quran with melodic inflection (Talhin)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Testimonies
Primary text
Recitation with melodic inflection is permissible provided there is no excessive elongation, stretching, or over-emphasis of the vowel signs (Harakat). The Prophet (peace be upon him) recited with melodic modulation, returning (in pitch), and raising his voice. Evidence includes the saying, "He is not of us who does not recite the Quran melodically (yataghanna bil-Quran)," and the statement, "Allah has not listened to anything as He has listened to a Prophet reciting the Quran melodically, proclaiming it aloud." The word 'Adhina' (listened) here means to hear attentively. The correct view is that this level of melodic recitation is permissible because if it were disliked, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would not have practiced it.
Supporting text
The view held by the Qadi (Judge) is that melodic recitation is disliked in all circumstances, a view shared by Abu Ubayd. They interpret the hadith "He is not of us who does not recite the Quran melodically" to mean one who does not make himself independent through it. Some scholars, including a narration from Ibn Uyaynah, held this interpretation. However, this is refuted because the meaning of 'Adhina' is to listen attentively, which applies to recitation, and the accompanying instruction to recite aloud refers to the manner of recitation, not self-sufficiency.