Quran Competition Not a Goal But a Means
Numerous competitions on Quran recitation and memorization are held every year in several Islamic countries including Iran, Malaysia, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia among others. These competitions draw qaris and memorizers from different countries who participate to put their talents on display.
Promoting Quranic culture and its teachings for sure are keys to the growth of individuals and hence the society and one of the means for doing so is staging competitions.
These events can be viewed as fuel for furthering the Quranic culture in society and also a place for elevating the level of qaris and memorizers. They can also sometimes lead to the discovery of new talents.
However, one should be cautious that these events do not become a goal in themselves.
They should act in a way that would encourage people to read and learn the Quran and contemplate its verses and above all, implement its teachings in daily lives.
One of the disadvantages that usually can be seen in relation to Quran competitions is that some qaris or memorizers simply tie their lives to such events. They come under so much pressure and stress despite the fact that the Quran has been revealed to be a source of peace for the soul. This is a contradiction that Quran activists should pay due attention to.
Speaking to IQNA in February 2022, prominent Iranian qari Hamed Shakernejad also pointed to this contradiction, saying, “Some people breathe a sigh of relief after the conclusion of a Quranic contest. How is it possible to explain this hardship?”
“One should take a look at paths traveled and past competitions, what has been the result of these contests?” he asked.
He noted that measures should be adopted so that young qaris would be allowed to attend Quranic events and find their own characteristics.
“Some consider Egypt as a model in Quranic issues and if accept this, we should ask the rise of talents such as Mustafa Ismail and Abdul Basit were the result of which competitions? Is it even possible to find such talents through contests?” the renowned qari framed.
Increased efforts are needed to promote the religious and Quranic culture in society and draw people to the Quran and its teachings.
Quran competitions are in fact one of the elements in the chain of Quranic activities that should be followed in Muslim societies. Schools, mosques, and Quran centers are the main venues for providing courses on the Holy Quran and let’s not forget the role of TV and radio stations and social media.
By Mohammad Ali Haqshenas
