Palestinian Quran Reciters Gather in Gaza for Special Event

Gaza Residents Gather to Recite Quran Amidst Devastation

In a solemn gathering at the partially damaged al-Shafii Mosque in western Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, 256 Palestinian men and boys recited the entire Quran aloud. The event, titled “Safwat Al-Huffaz,” marked the beginning of another day in Ramadan and served as a source of hope and strength for those affected by nearly two years of conflict with Israel.

The mosque’s yard was filled with rows of people dressed in white cloaks, who sat on chairs or lay on the floor to recite the Quran. Companions listened attentively, following each word carefully to ensure flawless recitation. The gathering has become a special collective way for Palestinians to observe Ramadan in Gaza.

Quran memorisation is considered one of the most noble Islamic honours, requiring years of disciplined study and devotion. In recent years, Gaza has developed a rich tradition of Quran memorisation circles that nurture spiritual values and strengthen connection with religious faith.

Despite the devastation caused by Israel’s conflict on Gaza, which has resulted in over 75,000 Palestinian deaths, participants insisted on holding the gathering again this year. Among those reciting was Mohammad al-Qiranawi, a 51-year-old blind Quran memoriser who lost his eyesight at age 10 due to health issues.

Al-Qiranawi continued to teach the Quran to others despite facing hardships, including displacement and destruction of mosques. He attributed his perseverance to relying on his hearing to perfect his recitation and finding solace in the Quran as a companion.

Gaza’s mosques have long served as community hubs where people seek spiritual guidance and relief from daily pressures. However, Israel’s genocide has harmed this infrastructure, with over 89 percent of Gaza’s mosques destroyed or severely damaged by Israeli attacks.

Source: Al Jazeera