Safir (Whistling)

Letter Qualities

الصفير

A sharp whistling sound accompanying three letters.

When it applies

  • ص
  • ز
  • س

How to pronounce it

Air is forced through a narrow channel at the tip of the tongue, producing an audible whistle.

Worked examples

Each is cited so you can find it in the mushaf and check it yourself.

ReferenceExampleNote
1:6الصِّرَاطَSad whistles heavily.

Common mistakes

  • Flattening the whistle so sad sounds like seen.
  • Over-whistling to the point of distortion.

Other rules in this group