Imam Al-Kisāʾī (120-189 A.H.) was one of the foremost scholars in both Quranic recitation and Arabic grammar, known for his deep knowledge and contributions to the field of Qira’at. He is widely regarded as one of the seven primary reciters of the Quran. A key figure in the intellectual circles of his time, Al-Kisāʾī’s contributions shaped the development of Arabic linguistics and Quranic sciences. His recitation is known for its precision and its preservation of classical Arabic pronunciation, particularly from his teachers, including the renowned scholar Ḥamza ibn Habīb.
Born around 120 A.H. in Kufa, Iraq, into a non-Arab Persian family, Al-Kisāʾī was deeply committed to learning despite his background. His journey into Islamic scholarship began in Iraq, where he was given the nickname “Al-Kisāʾī” after performing Iḥrām (ritual consecration) in a “kisāʾ” (cloak or wrap). He learned Quranic recitation from numerous prominent scholars of his time, including Imam Ḥamza ibn Habīb and other famous reciters like ʿĀṣim and Shuʿbah. Al-Kisāʾī passed away in 189 A.H., leaving behind a rich intellectual heritage.
Imam Al-Kisāʾī was not only a master in Quranic recitation but also an expert in Arabic grammar. In fact, he was so renowned in both fields that the Abbasid Caliph Harun al-Rashid considered him one of his most esteemed teachers. He also taught both the caliph’s sons, al-Amin and al-Ma’mun.
Also known as Al Layth, he recited the Qurān directly to his best friend, Imām Al-Kisā-ī.
Al-Layth ibn Khalid al-Baghdadi, also known as Abu al-Harith, was a close companion and dedicated student of Imam Al-Kisāʾī. He is remembered for his righteousness and commitment to the recitation of the Qur'an. Al-Layth was widely regarded for his strong connection to the Quranic sciences. He passed away in the year 240 AH.
Read MoreHe is the same Dūrī who is the student of Abu Amr Al Basri
Ad-Dūrī, full name Hafs ibn Umar ibn Abdul Aziz ad-Dūrī (150-246 AH), was a prominent Quranic reciter born in the village of Ad-Dur near Baghdad. Despite being blind, he became a leading figure in Quranic recitation and was the first to compile the various Qira'at. He is particularly known for his transmission of the recitations of both Abu Amr al-Basri and Imam Al-Kisāʾī.
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