Qira’ah Variations and Qur'anic Meanings: An Analysis of Imam Hamzah's Thought

The Quran was revealed in Arabic, chosen as the exclusive language to convey its divine message. However, the Arabic used in the Quran encompasses multiple dialects and pronunciations, reflecting its revelation in seven modes (ahruf), which facilitated comprehension for non-Arab readers. This study aims to analyze the influence of Qiraat diversity on Quranic interpretation, with a particular focus on the Qiraat of Imam Hamzah. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a library research approach, gathering data from classical and contemporary sources. By systematically examining the linguistic and grammatical aspects of Imam Hamzah’s Qiraat, this study highlights its distinctive characteristics compared to other Qiraat, including variations in i‘rab, root words, syntax, and pronunciation. The findings reveal that Imam Hamzah’s Qiraat significantly contributes to the interpretation of Quranic verses, particularly those concerning legal provisions (ayat ahkam). While some of his readings are unique, others align closely with the Qiraat of Al-Kisai or Abu Bakr from ‘Asim. These variations offer deeper insights into the flexibility and richness of Quranic recitation and its interpretive impact.Theoretically, this study underscores the role of Qiraat in shaping legal and theological exegesis, demonstrating how phonetic and grammatical nuances influence meaning. It contributes to Quranic studies by providing a comprehensive analysis of Imam Hamzah’s Qiraat and its implications for the understanding of Islamic jurisprudence and linguistic diversity in the Quran. Contribution: This study contributes to Quranic studies by demonstrating how Imam Hamzah’s Qiraat influences legal interpretation and linguistic diversity, enriching scholarly discourse on the interplay between recitation and exegesis.