Zeinab Khazalizadeh, hailing from Khuzestan Province, secured third place in the Quran recitation category at Iran's 47th National Quran Competition for Women. In an interview with IQNA, she dedicated her achievement to her family, acknowledging their unwavering support.
"I thank God for the success granted to me; all of this is due to the blessings of the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). What matters is to be on the path of the Quran and to act upon it," she stated.
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Reflecting on her journey, Khazalizadeh mentioned that her parents have been deeply connected with the Quran, with her mother serving as a Quran instructor.
She began memorizing the Quran during her elementary years and, upon recognizing her talent in recitation, started specialized training at the age of 12, receiving guidance from various teachers.
She emulates the style of Egyptian master Mustafa Ismail and recently earned the title of second-degree reciter from the Supreme Council of the Quran, a significant honor in Iran.
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Khazalizadeh pointed to the importance of a supportive environment in nurturing a child's Quranic talents, advising parents to facilitate opportunities without imposing specific activities.
She noted that when children observe their parents engaging in practices like prayer, they are naturally inclined to follow suit.
In teaching, she assesses a child's abilities by having them recite and tests their musical intelligence to determine aptitude in vocalization and melody; if lacking, she guides them toward memorization. She highlighted that prominent Egyptian reciters advocate beginning with memorization, considering it foundational to recitation skills.
Addressing how Quranic families can confront societal challenges, Khazalizadeh cited Quranic teachings that stress patience and prayer.
She warned that merely appearing religious is insufficient for resisting temptations and hardships; understanding and embodying Quranic verses enable individuals to endure life's most difficult situations.
Iran’s 47th National Quran Competition, organized by the Awqaf and Charity Affairs Organization, concluded its women's and under-18 girls' sections with ceremonies in Tabriz, on December 9, 2024, after a week of competition.
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The event showcased the nation's top Quran reciters and memorizers, aiming to promote Islamic values and foster Quranic literacy.
The men's section of the competition commenced in Tabriz on December 10.
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