Qur’an award winners honored

JEDDAH: It is the duty of Muslims to learn the holy Qur’an by utilizing all possible means and opportunities, and to live according to the Islamic values espoused in the holy Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said Abdul Shakoor Ali, president of Thanima.
Addressing the Qur’an Study Center’s award ceremony, he highlighted the remarkable transformation brought about by the Qur’an, in the lives of Muslims in Arabia during the time of Prophet Muhammad and his Caliphs.
“It made them the leaders of the world, gave them direction, boosted their thinking power and strengthened their morale and courage. They refused to bow their heads except before God,” Ali said, citing marvelous instances from the lives of the Prophet’s followers.
K.K. Nissar, supervisor of QSC that runs 20 study circles in different parts of Jeddah, decried that Muslim men are not showing enthusiasm like women, to learn the Qur’an. “We have to find time to learn our holy book,” he added.
The winners of QSC awards were: Saleena Jafar, Saleena Nizar and Shajna Salman in level one. While the winners in level 2 were: Joshna K., Asma Tahir, Mumthas Noushad and Shameena Salim, Sajida Ashraf and Sajna received awards for completing level three.
Shameena Salim, who won first place, scoring 99.5% on the QSC exam, said this experience was a great opportunity to learn the Qur’an. She commended her teacher V. Mumtaz for finding the time to teach Qur’an to a group of ladies in the neighborhood, and she also thanked her husband for his support.
Mumtaz, president of Thanima’s female division, admired Muslim women for showing interest in learning the Qur’an, and employing their spare time for such a divine and worthy cause. “Living in the Gulf, gives Muslim women a golden opportunity to learn the Qur’an and discover Islam,” she pointed out.
Shafna Bashir, another teacher, said more women in her locality are showing interest in learning the Qur’an. “The QSC has a big impact on Muslim families, as it changes their lifestyle and inspires them to strive for a better life,” she said. Bashir’s students have been so motivated by their lessons that they want to serve pilgrims during the next Haj season.