Al-Kitab al-Awsat fi 'Ilm al-Qira'at delves into the science of Quranic recitations (Qira'at) and their various forms according to the Imams. The book begins with an introduction by the editor, which covers the history of the Quran's compilation into codices, discusses the seven 'Ahruf' (modes) and their meanings, and provides biographies of the Imams of Qira'at. It introduces the author, Imam al-'Umani, and highlights the significance, uniqueness, and distinctive features of his book—Al-Kitab al-Awsat—compared to other works on the subject. The book contains the eight recitations from the eight Imams whose readings the author transmitted: Ibn Kathir, Nafi', Abu 'Amr, 'Abdullah ibn 'Amir, 'Asim, Hamzah, al-Kisa'i, and Ya'qub ibn Ishaq, the Imam of Basra, citing their chains of transmission (asanid). The author discusses the virtues of Tajwid (rules of recitation), the letters (huruf), their points of articulation, characteristics, and classifications, as well as the Isti'adhah (seeking refuge) and Basmalah. He then divides his book into chapters on Idgham (assimilation), the Hamzah, Imalah (vowel inclination), and the Ya'at (letters 'ya'). He concludes with general chapters concerning the rewards of reciting the Quran, the number of its surahs, verses, letters, and words, the beginnings of the surahs, and the reason for placing Surah Al-Fatihah before other surahs. The book offers extensive details on the various forms of recitations, their linguistic justifications, and the opinions of reciters and linguists. This edition is based on a unique manuscript, as the editor did not find any other copies.

• Author: Al-Hasan bin Sa'id al-Muqri'
• Editor: Izzat Hassan
• Publisher: Dar al-Fikr al-Mu'asir - Damascus
• Edition: 1st
• Year of Publication: 2006
• Pages: 632
• Volumes: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• Paper Type: White
• ISBN: 1-59239-550-3