Iranian Memorizer Earns Prestigious Certification for Advanced Quranic Readings

IQNA – Shoja Zuweidat, an internationally recognized Quran memorizer, has become the first Iranian to receive the advanced Ijazah (certification) for the Ten Major Quranic Readings (Qira'at 'Ashr Kubra). 

Speaking to IQNA, Zuweidat explained that while he previously received a foundational certification (Ijazah Sughra) from Sheikh Mohammed Fahmi Asfour through Iran’s Supreme Quran Council, the more advanced certification was unavailable in Iran. 

To pursue the Ijazah Kubra, Zuweidat turned to neighboring Iraq, where Sheikh Saleh Abdullah Al-Rashed, a prominent scholar in Quranic readings, resides in Basra.

"I began studying under Sheikh Al-Rashed, who holds certifications for both Ijazah Sughra and Ijazah Kubra," Zuweidat said, adding that his prior experience expedited the process. 

On November 18, Zuweidat was officially awarded the certification in a ceremony held at the Iraq Scholars Association in Basra. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Iraq’s Sunni Scholars Association leader, the head of the Sunni Endowment Office in southern Iraq, and representatives from Iran’s consulate in Basra. 

The certification includes a chain of transmission linking back to renowned qaris, such as Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary of Egypt. 

"I hope this achievement enables me to serve the Quran more effectively," Zuweidat said.

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