The Components of 'Recitation Engineering' According to Ayatollah Khamenei

"Recitation Engineering" emerged as a pivotal term introduced by Ayatollah Khamenei on the first day of the blessed month of Ramadan in 1401 SH (2002 CE) during a gathering focused on connecting with the Holy Quran. This article aims to elucidate the concept and components of "Recitation Engineering" from the perspective of Ayatollah Khamenei. Employing the method of "Content Analysis," it first extracts and categorizes themes related to Quranic recitation from His Eminence's speeches during 70 Quranic meetings from 1368 SH (1989 CE) to 1401 SH (2002 CE). The findings reveal that from Ayatollah Khamenei's viewpoint, Quranic recitation comprises two categories: internal etiquettes and external etiquettes. Internal etiquettes encompass the inherent influence of the reciter from the themes of the verses, while external etiquettes include: 1. Selecting appropriate pauses and beginnings; 2. Emphasizing specific words and phrases and their repetition; and 3. Observing sound and intonation measures. Adherence to these etiquettes leads to: 1. Enhancing the general public's understanding of the Quran; 2. Accurately conveying meanings to listeners; and 3. Spiritual, intellectual, and practical growth at both individual and societal levels. It seems that, according to Ayatollah Khamenei, the application of the term "Recitation Engineering" pertains to observing the external etiquettes of Quranic recitation, such as attention to pauses and beginnings, emphasis and repetition, sound, and intonation, which will be expounded upon in this article.