The Throat (Ḥalq)

The throat is divided into three areas:

First: Lowest of the Throat area (Aqṣā al-Ḥalq):

This is the area of the vocal cords in the larynx. The vocal cords are two horizontal membranes located at the top of the trachea. They open and close to regulate airflow and help produce the sounds of letters. From this area emerge the letters: Hamzah (ء) and Hāʼ (هـ).

Second: Middle of the Throat area (Wasaṭ al-Ḥalq):

This is the area of the epiglottis (Lisān al-Mizmar). The epiglottis is a flexible cartilaginous tissue located in the middle of the throat. It functions to regulate the passage of air into the trachea and food/water into the esophagus, and it contributes to sound production by widening or narrowing the throat. From this area emerge the letters: ʿAyn (ع) and H’āʼ (ح).

Third: Top of the Throat area (Adnā al-Ḥalq):

This is the area of the root of the tongue alongside the corresponding upper soft palate (near the uvula). From this area emerge the letters: Ghayn (غ) and Khāʼ (خ).