As part of the leading role that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia plays in serving the Book of God and caring for its memorizers around the world, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance , represented by the Religious Attaché at the Kingdom’s Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina (whose scope of work covers the Republic of Montenegro), organized the local Holy Quran competition for boys and girls in the capital, Podgorica.
The competitions of this blessed Quranic event commenced on Monday, 2 Rajab 1447 AH, and continued for three days, concluding on Wednesday, 4 Rajab 1447 AH. The closing ceremony was attended by a high-level delegation, including the Grand Mufti and Head of the Islamic Community of Montenegro, Sheikh Rifat Fejzić, along with a representative of the Embassy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Religious Attaché, and a number of prominent Islamic figures from the Balkans region.
Competition details and award categories
The competition witnessed a spirit of fair play among Muslim youth in Montenegro, with over 47 participants in the preliminary rounds, 24 of whom qualified for the finals. The competition was divided into six main categories (three for boys and three for girls) to ensure fairness and encourage different age groups and levels of memorization. The categories were as follows:
- First branch: Memorizing ten parts of the Holy Quran.
- The second branch: Memorizing five parts.
- Third branch: Memorizing two parts.
At the end of the ceremony, commemorative shields, certificates of appreciation, and financial rewards were distributed to the winners, amidst a spiritual atmosphere that reflected the depth of fraternal bonds.
Saudi Arabia's role in serving the Quran globally
This competition is not an isolated event, but rather part of a comprehensive strategy adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, to promote the Holy Quran and disseminate its tolerant teachings based on moderation and balance. The Kingdom pays particular attention to Muslim minorities in Europe and the Balkans, where these competitions contribute to connecting young people with their Islamic identity, encouraging them to learn Arabic, and protecting them from extremist ideologies by instilling in them authentic Quranic values.
Cultural and social significance in the Balkans
These events take on added significance in Montenegro, a country characterized by its unique ethnic and religious diversity. Such Quranic gatherings reinforce the presence of the Islamic Community as an official institution overseeing Muslim affairs and underscore the deep diplomatic and cultural ties between the Kingdom and Montenegro. They also represent a message of peace and love, showcasing the positive face of Islam in Europe and supporting efforts to integrate Muslims into their societies while preserving the tenets of their faith.
