Hamza ibn Habib Al-Zayyat (d. 156 AH):
Imam of Kufa in recitation — renowned for extended madd, sakta, and tashil of hamzas. Among the most precise of the Ten readers.
Hamza's extended madd:
- Madd muttasil: Hamza extends it 6 counts obligatorily — transmitted directly from the imam.
- Madd munfasil: Extended 4-5 counts — narration of Khalaf: 5; narration of Khallad: 4.
- Madd al-layn at pause: Hamza extends "khawf" and "bayt" at pause up to 6 counts — specific to him and Hisham.
Performance method:
A reader by Hamza's narration may choose either option for madd munfasil (4 or 6) — but may not mix them within a single reading session (rule: "whoever narrates one way must commit to it").
Warning for students:
Exceeding 6 counts is impermissible in any narration — Ibn Al-Jazari: "Exceeding the established madd is blameworthy exaggeration and forbidden affectation."
Question: What is Hamza's madd measure for madd muttasil? And what are the options for madd munfasil?
Answer: Muttasil: 6 counts, obligatory. Munfasil: 4 counts (Khallad) or 5 (Khalaf) — must commit to one option.