Qur’an contest begins in Makkah today

One hundred and sixty-four contestants from 53 countries, Islamic centers and organizations are taking part in an international Qur’an memorization and recitation contest that opens at the Grand Mosque in Makkah today.
Islamic Affairs Minister Saleh Al-Asheikh thanked Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and Crown Prince Salman for providing facilities for the successful organization of the competition.
“A large number of young Muslim men are now interested in taking part in this annual competition that plays an important role in spreading the message of the Qur’an,” the minister said. He thanked the government for its continuous support for the efforts aimed at spreading the message of Qur’an.
The contest, which is named after King Abdul Aziz, encourages young men in the Islamic world to learn and memorize the Qur’an, recite it in the proper way and study the meaning and interpretation of its verses.
“It is attracting more and more contestants each year,” Al-Asheikh said. Participants in the contest will be able to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. Winners will be given fabulous cash prizes.”
He urged Muslims to study the Qur’an and practice its teachings in their lives. “It contains divine guidance and rules.” He advised Qur’an learners to be moderate in their approach and try to spread its message in a conducive manner.
“This is one of the oldest Qur’an contests in the Kingdom that has lasted 34 years,” the minister said.
Meanwhile, members of the jury said the contest was instrumental in producing a large number of youths who show great interest in learning the Qur’an and its teachings.
“This annual event will encourage young Muslims to compete with one another in learning the word of God. This is a great noble work,” said Ibrahim Al-Dossary of King Abdullah Chair for the Qur’an at Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh.
Mehmet Akif Koc of Ankara University also praised the competition. “For nearly half a century, this contest has been encouraging the youth to learn and memorize the Qur’an. It will bring these youths closer to Islam,” he said.