Riyadh: Contestants from around the world have gathered, united by the Book of Allah and following diverse paths in memorizing, reciting, and studying its sciences. Their stories are reflected in the final rounds of the 46th edition of the King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorizing, Reciting, and Interpreting the Holy Quran, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance.
According to Saudi Press Agency, among the participants is Mauritanian contestant Ibrahim Mohammed Saeed. His journey with the Holy Quran did not end with completing its memorization. He went on to pursue advanced studies in the science of Quranic readings, memorizing specialized texts and furthering his knowledge of the sciences of the Holy Quran. His journey ultimately led him to represent his country in one of the world's leading international Quranic competitions.
Belgian contestant Elias Al-Qurashi is experiencing the competition from a different perspective while sharing the same goal as the other contestants. He expressed his pride in standing in Makkah and reciting the Holy Quran in the place where it was revealed. He described his participation as a great honor and an exceptional experience.
From Argentina, seven-year-old Anil Roman Mandoldo is the youngest contestant in this year's edition. He expressed his pride in joining memorizers of the Book of Allah from countries around the world and standing beside the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. He said participating in an international competition devoted to the Holy Quran was an experience that would remain with him as a lasting memory.
Despite their different countries and competition categories, the contestants' stories illustrate diverse paths united by a common purpose. For some, the journey with the Holy Quran begins with memorization and extends to recitation, Quranic readings, and their sciences. The competition brings these experiences together in Makkah, where it becomes a spiritual, scholarly, and human experience.
The participation of contestants from European countries, alongside participants from various continents, highlights the broad reach of efforts to promote and preserve the Holy Quran. It also reflects the diversity of backgrounds represented among its memorizers and reciters. The competition provides a global platform for these Quranic talents to compete and connect in the sacred surroundings of the Grand Mosque.