Saudi Arabia Launches King Salman Qur’an and Sunnah Competition in Mauritania

In a significant cultural event, Saudi Arabia has launched the first King Salman Competition for Memorizing the Qur’an and Sunnah of the Prophet in Nouakchott, Mauritania. This competition, which runs from October 15 to 19, 2023, is organized by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs in collaboration with Mauritania’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Original Education. It aims to promote the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah, encouraging Muslim youth to engage deeply with their faith.

A total of 136 contestants from 16 West African nations are participating in this prestigious event. They will be judged by a panel of 10 experts, ensuring a fair and rigorous evaluation process. The competition boasts a substantial prize pool of SR1,218,000, equivalent to approximately $324,000, which serves as a strong incentive for the participants.

During the opening ceremony, Mauritania’s Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sidi Yahya Ould Cheikhna Ould Lemrabet, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Saudi Arabia for hosting this important competition. He emphasized that this initiative reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to the Qur’an and Sunnah, highlighting the cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations.

The preliminary rounds of the competition will continue until October 17, with the final ceremony scheduled for October 19. This structure allows ample time for contestants to showcase their memorization and recitation skills, which are crucial in Islamic tradition.

In addition to the competition, Saudi Ambassador to Mauritania, Abdulaziz Al-Raqqabi, inaugurated the Jusoor Exhibition on Sunday. This exhibition features over 12 interactive sections that cover various topics, including the Qur’an, photography, Saudi attire, the Two Holy Mosques, Arabic calligraphy, technology, hospitality, and activities for children. A large screen at the exhibition highlights Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims around the world.

The exhibition aims to strengthen the cultural ties between Africa and Saudi Arabia, allowing African nations to benefit from the services provided by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. It also promotes a message of moderation and the rejection of extremism, which is vital in today’s world.

Minister Lemrabott expressed pride in hosting the competition, stating, “We in Mauritania are proud of this choice, which reflects our identity.” He pledged full efforts to ensure the competition’s success and its future growth, emphasizing the importance of engaging youth with the Qur’an through memorization, understanding, and reflection.

The competition not only encourages healthy competition among participants but also underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to teaching the Qur’an and spreading the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. The Mauritanian minister highlighted the positive impact of the competition on participants, allowing them to compete honorably in Qur’an memorization and recitation. He noted that the prizes serve as a valuable incentive for the contestants, who have prepared diligently for this event.

The King Salman Competition for Memorizing the Qur’an and Sunnah represents a significant step in promoting Islamic education and cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and Mauritania. It is an opportunity for young Muslims to connect with their faith, showcase their talents, and foster a spirit of unity and understanding among nations. As the competition unfolds, it is expected to inspire many and reinforce the importance of the Qur’an and Sunnah in the lives of Muslims worldwide.