Quran Contest to Encourage Participants to Integrate Quran with Their Lives
“I think it (the competition) is a great opportunity to spread the message and principles of the Holy Quran with a wide community with representatives from all over the world,” Zuhair Hussaini told IQNA.
“It's an interactive event which enables everyone to participate and at the same time be able got take something back. It bridges the gaps between the different cultures with a common denominator, being the Holy Quran. Insha Allah it will encourage students to integrate the Qur'an with their lives, to put into use with action as well. To the point in which we live it, sleep it and die by it.”
He described the Quran as the book of Allah and the key to guidance. “I try to implement the verses (of the Quran) in my life in order to live in the manner in which Allah would want me to live in.”
Hussaini was born and raised in New York and is currently engaged in his studies at the New York Institute of Technology with a focus in architecture and design.
“I have a deep interest in the design world, Islamic studies and the art of recitation. I have been reciting Quran for about 8 years now, 5 of them being professionally.”
Hussaini, who will compete in the field of recitation, said he began to learn Quran recitation when the local Imam of the mosque was holding classes for youngsters.
“This was about 8 years ago however this only lasted for a few months. I began to teach myself recitation, tajweed, maqamat, through the help of online material available. However I have found an Egyptian mentor that I have one-on-one sessions with sometimes.
“During Ramadhan, we recite a juz every single day in the style and manner seen in masjids (mosques) in Iran and Iraq. Quran is implemented in other areas, conference, but not many specific events highlighting it. I myself teach Quran at a madressa to young kids.”
The young Quran reciter further referred to Quranic activities in the US, saying “Quranic events and activities flourish when you have an audience for it. However it becomes a challenge in a society in which Islam is not encouraged. In some communities, the presence of Quran is limited so it can definitely use a boost.”
Asked how the recent atrocities being done in the name of Islam have been viewed in the US, Hussaini said, “With the current situation in the Middle East, Islam is viewed negatively because it is smeared by the actions of those who claim to represent Islam. But they are far from the principles addressed in the Holy Quran. There are groups and scholars who have spoken out against such extremist groups but it's a difficult task to persuade a whole nation of where the truth really lies.”
The fifth edition of the International Holy Quran Competition for Muslims Students is scheduled to be held on January 1-4, 2015 in Tehran with the participation of Quran reciters and memorizers from over 50 countries.
