Definition of Pausing Modes:
When pausing on a word-final voweled letter, three options exist:
1. Sukoon (Full Stop):
The final vowel is completely silenced. This is the standard default and is permissible with all vowel types. E.g., "Al-Raheem" becomes "Al-Raheem" with a stopped meem.
2. Rawm (Faint Vowel):
Approximately one-third of the dhamma or kasra is sounded in a very faint voice — audible only to someone nearby. Not permitted with fatha.
E.g., pausing on "Nasta'eenu" with a barely audible dhamma.
3. Ishmam (Lip Gesture):
After a full stop, the lips are positioned as if to pronounce a dhamma — seen but not heard. Only permitted with dhamma (dhamm-voweled endings).
E.g., pausing on "Nasta'eenu" — lips round slightly after full silence.
Rule:
- Dhamma ending: all three options (sukoon, rawm, ishmam).
- Kasra ending: sukoon and rawm only.
- Fatha and tanween endings: sukoon only.
Examples:
• "Al-Raheem" — full stop (most common); or rawm with faint kasra.
• "Nasta'eenu" — full stop, rawm, or ishmam.