JEDDAH - The 7-day 30th annual Qur’an competition is set to start in Makkah from Sept. 13. The competition, started 30 years ago, aims to teach the participants from around the world how best to read the Holy Book and comprehend its meanings and the laws laid down by the Almighty.
The participants at the competition, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, will also get a chance to visit several areas around the holy city of Makkah including the factory that produces the Kiswa (the Ka’ba cover), a museum of the Two Holy Mosques and Makkah Club for Culture and Art, said Ahmad Al-Nwawi, head of the ministry’s public relations department in Makkah.
The program also includes a visit to Madina, a tour of King Fahd Qur’an printing complex and the Islamic University in Makkah.
“These competitions help in spreading Islamic culture and rules overseas since Muslims from different countries participate in them, Dr. Usama Al-Taiyeb, head of King Abdul Aziz University, said.
“These competitions encourage young Muslims to learn more about their religion.
Reading and learning Qur’an is something special that requires both the heart and the brain,” said Al-Taiyeb.
However, he said, these competitions would be more effective if they focus on Muslims who live as minorities in non-Muslim countries.
Al-Taiyeb also urged the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to train young Saudis to teach Islamic culture in these countries’ languages.
“Then Islam can spread among youngsters of these countries,” said Al-Taiyeb.