Young Lebanese Memorizes Quran Despite Health Challenges

TEHRAN (IQNA) – Many people may not be able to speak or understand a single Arabic word but there are some who perfectly recite the Holy Quran, which represents the highest level of standard Arabic language.

Some others may not be physically fit or have health issues but still they are keen to learn the Holy Quran by heart and recite it perfectly.

The 21-year-old Nader Mahmoud Kouja, who represents Lebanon in the ongoing 23rd edition of the Dubai International Holy Quran Award (Dihqa), Ramadan 2-14, is such a person who has only one lung.

"I know it is a big challenge to finish this sacred mission with not only one lung but also with some respiratory issues."

But to have the honor of memorizing the words of Almighty Allah is one of a kind, he added, according to the Khaleej Times.

"To memorize the Holy Quran, one feels safer, more relaxed, and inspired," he said. "Your spirit, heart and mind become more divine and closer to the Great Creator.

"The Quran has significantly sharpened my memory, boosted my academic performance and won me people's respect.

"I stared memorizing the Holy Quran at the age of 14 and finished three years later despite my health issues."

Nader, whose name means something rare or one of a kind, learnt the Quran at a mosque where classes were held on a daily basis."

"My competent Quran teachers were a great help," he said, adding that his parents were also a big support for him in this mission.

"They have always encouraged me to have this honor which makes them happy as well."

Nader, who leads worshippers in prayer back home in Lebanon, studied Sharia or Islamic sciences in his hometown Tripoli. He wished to continue his graduation in the same discipline "to be a competent scholar in the future."

"I do believe in and adopt what Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: (The best of you is the one who learns the Holy Quran and teaches it to others."

Though it was Nader's first International Quran competition, his performance and beautiful recitation have mesmerized the jury and audience at the Dubai Chamber.

"I have participated in three local Quran competitions and managed to seize advanced positions in all of them."

The Dubai International Holy Quran Award has become a leading hub for full Quran memorizers from around the globe, he underlined.

"It is an honor and a big dream to compete in such a prestigious competition and meet this big number of full Quran memorizers; 90 this year, from all over the world."