Ikhfaa Shafawi
السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته
What is the correct method of making Ikhfaa shafawi? Should the lips have a gap between them or not?
جزاك الله خيرا
Answer
Wa ʿAlaykumus Salām Wa Raḥmatullāhi Wa Barakātuh
The Ikhfā Shafawī may either be recited with the light meeting of the lips or with a tiny gap between the lips.
However, we are more inclined towards the first manner after studying the sciences of Qirā’āt and the various books and Risālahs revolving around this topic, as well as having learned the said manner from our honorable teachers (may Allāh preserve and have mercy on them).
The ideal way forward for you is to sit in the presence of a teacher who has mastered this science and to practically demonstrate the application of such ruling to you.