The 12th Imam Al-Shatibi International Holy Quran Hifz and Ten Qira`at Competition has officially commenced in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This global gathering has attracted Quranic scholars, hafiz, and qira`at experts from various countries, establishing itself as one of the most prestigious platforms for Quranic study and recitation.
According to the organizers, more than 1,000 contestants are participating in this year`s event. The competition focuses on rigorous evaluation of hifz and ten qira`at skills, conducted by an esteemed international panel of judges. Representing Bangladesh on this distinguished panel is Sheikh Ahmad bin Yusuf Al-Azhari, a renowned expert in Quranic recitation.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Sheikh Ahmad bin Yusuf Al-Azhari described his participation as a special favor from Allah. He offered prayers for the success, sincerity, and acceptance of the event, expressing his hope that this platform will serve the Quran, honor its hafiz and experts, and become a source of profound welfare for the global Muslim community.
Joining Sheikh Ahmad bin Yusuf Al-Azhari on the international judging panel are several other globally recognized scholars and experts. The panel includes former Grand Qari of Egypt Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Isa Al-Masrawi, Sheikh Hafiz Osman Sahin from Turkey, and Dr. Ahmad Al-Qudah and Sheikh Hassan Abu Al-Nar from Jordan. Other esteemed members include Sheikh Abdul Karim bin Zakaria from Malaysia, Sheikh Abdul Munim Al-Maksabi from Tunisia, Sheikh Khader Bahi from Somalia, Sheikh Ahmad Mabrouk from Egypt, and Sheikh Abdur Rukn Al-Susi from the United States.
The competition serves as a significant intersection for contestants from diverse backgrounds, fostering a shared commitment to the accurate and eloquent recitation of the Quran. Beyond the evaluation of hifz and qira`at proficiency, the event acts as a bridge for unity and cooperation within the global Muslim community. The organizers have emphasized that the platform is designed to uphold high standards of Quranic preservation while providing a transformative educational experience for all participants.
As the competition proceeds in Minneapolis, the judging panel remains focused on the intricate nuances of recitation and memorization. The presence of such a diverse array of experts underscores the international importance of this gathering, which continues to gain recognition as a premier venue for Quranic excellence in the Western hemisphere.
