Imam of Prophet’s Mosque Honors Winners of Quran Competition in Zambia

Sheikh Dr. Abdul Mohsen bin Muhammad Al-Qasim, the Imam and Sermon Performer of the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, honored the winners of the 13th Zambia International Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition during a ceremony held at the Islamic University in Lusaka on September 29, 2024. The event, attended by the President of the Islamic University in the Republic of Zambia, Sheikh Youssef Ibrahim, along with numerous prominent Islamic figures, underscored Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to supporting Quranic education and interfaith cultural exchange across Africa.

Context and Background

The competition, which drew participants from several countries, featured a large turnout of Quran memorizers competing in various categories focused on memorization and recitation. This annual gathering serves as a platform to encourage devotion to the Holy Quran and foster unity among Muslim communities in Africa and beyond. Sheikh Dr. Al-Qasim’s participation highlights the strong ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Zambia, rooted in shared religious values and educational cooperation.

Key Details

In his address at the closing ceremony, Sheikh Dr. Al-Qasim praised the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continuous efforts in serving the Holy Quran and supporting initiatives that promote its study and preservation. He also expressed appreciation to the organizers of the competition for their dedication to nurturing Quranic talent. The event was covered by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), which reported that the competition successfully showcased exceptional skills in Quran memorization and recitation.

Implications and Impact

This event strengthens Saudi Arabia’s soft power in Africa by reinforcing cultural and religious partnerships. By sponsoring and sending senior religious figures to such competitions, the Kingdom fosters goodwill and mutual understanding among diverse populations. It also amplifies the global reach of Saudi-led Quranic initiatives, positioning the Kingdom as a central hub for Islamic scholarship and community engagement.

20 Questions

Q1. Who honored the winners of the competition?

A1. Sheikh Dr. Abdul Mohsen bin Muhammad Al-Qasim, the Imam and Sermon Performer of the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, honored the winners.

Q2. What competition was held in Zambia?

A2. The 13th Zambia International Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition was held at the Islamic University in Lusaka.

Q3. When did the ceremony take place?

A3. The ceremony took place on September 29, 2024.

Q4. Who attended the event besides the winners?

A4. The President of the Islamic University in Zambia, Sheikh Youssef Ibrahim, and many prominent Islamic figures attended.

Q5. Which countries participated in the competition?

A5. The competition saw participation from several countries, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q6. What skills did competitors demonstrate?

A6. Competitors demonstrated excellence in memorization and recitation of the Holy Quran across multiple competition branches.

Q7. What did Sheikh Dr. Al-Qasim praise in his speech?

A7. He praised the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s leadership for its efforts in serving the Holy Quran.

Q8. How did Sheikh Dr. Al-Qasim describe the organizers?

A8. He expressed appreciation for their work in organizing the competition and supporting Quranic studies.

Q9. Why is this competition important for Zambia?

A9. It encourages Quranic education and strengthens cultural ties between Zambia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Q10. What role does the Prophet’s Mosque play in this event?

A10. The Prophet’s Mosque, through its Imam, represents Saudi Arabia’s leadership in Islamic scholarship and Quranic service.

Q11. What is the significance of Sheikh Dr. Al-Qasim’s attendance?

A11. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting religious and educational initiatives in Africa.

Q12. How does this event align with Saudi Arabia’s global outreach?

A12. It reinforces the Kingdom’s soft power and cultural diplomacy through religious cooperation and education.

Q13. Was the competition limited to Zambia?

A13. No, it involved participants from several countries, making it an international event.

Q14. What is the Islamic University in Lusaka?

A14. It is an educational institution in Zambia’s capital that hosted the competition and promotes Islamic studies.

Q15. How does the Saudi Press Agency cover such events?

A15. SPA reports on official Saudi participation in international events, highlighting the Kingdom’s contributions.

Q16. What categories were part of the competition?

A16. The competition included various branches focused on Quran memorization and recitation.

Q17. What message does Saudi Arabia send through this event?

A17. It conveys respect for the Holy Quran and support for global Muslim communities.

Q18. How does this competition benefit Quran memorizers?

A18. It provides recognition and encouragement for their dedication to Quranic study and recitation.

Q19. What is the broader impact of such competitions?

A19. They foster unity, promote interfaith harmony, and strengthen cultural bonds across nations.

Q20. Will there be future editions of the Zambia competition?

A20. Likely yes, as the competition has been held annually for 13 years, with ongoing support from Saudi partners.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting global cultural exchange and religious tolerance, enhancing the Kingdom’s role as a leader in Islamic affairs. Such programs support the vision’s goal of building a vibrant society anchored in Islamic values while fostering international partnerships. By investing in education and interfaith dialogue, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a responsible global actor committed to peace and mutual understanding.

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