From Clinic to Competition: Iranian Student Draws Strength From Quran

IQNA – A young Iranian dental student who began memorizing the Quran at age ten says his academic routine and clinical training continue to be shaped by a deep connection to the Holy Book.

Mahdi Barandeh, a fifth-year dentistry student at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, spoke with IQNA on the occasion of Student Day about his journey as a Quran memorizer and competitor.

Born in 2004 in Hamedan, Barandeh began memorizing the Quran at his mother’s encouragement. “I started when I was ten and finished the full memorization by the age of thirteen,” he said.

After moving to Tehran for university, he found more opportunities for advanced Quranic activity. He noted that Quranic programs at Tehran University of Medical Sciences are “among the most active in the country.”

Barandeh has competed regularly in the Quran contests held by Iran’s Ministry of Health as well as the National Quran Festival for Students. He said consistent participation helps strengthen a memorizer’s discipline.

“Taking part in these competitions requires regular practice and continuous review,” he said. In the days before a contest, “this effort must even double,” allowing a memorizer to test his mastery under pressure.

Balancing dental training with Quran revision demands creativity and discipline. Barandeh said he uses every spare moment.

“On my way to class or the clinic, I usually find time to review a few pages,” he explained. Short breaks at the clinic are also devoted to the Quran. “Even in the very short interval between two patients, I prefer to read the Quran and go over my memorization.”

His accomplishments in national contests have led to international representation. Barandeh reached the finals of the 47th national Quran competition in Tabriz. Finalists are considered for international events based on age and host-country regulations. As a result, he represented Iran in the 45th King Abdulaziz International Quran Competition in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.

He was also a finalist in the 48th national round held in Sanandaj and is preparing to compete in Bangladesh’s 4th International Quran Competition, set to begin on December 18.

Barandeh says these experiences strengthen both his spiritual life and his professional growth. For him, the Quran remains the center of daily discipline, academic focus, and personal peace.

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