King Salman Quran Award: 129 participants compete for millions in prizes
The Saudi capital, Riyadh, is witnessing a remarkable Quranic movement with the launch of the final rounds of the local competition for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Award for Memorization, Recitation, and Interpretation of the Holy Quran for boys and girls in its 25th edition. This major annual event, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, affirms the continued Saudi commitment to the Holy Quran. This year, 129 male and female contestants representing all thirteen regions of the Kingdom are competing for prizes totaling seven million riyals.
A historical extension of the care of the Holy Quran
This competition is not merely a passing event, but rather a link in a golden chain that stretches back to the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where the wise leadership has given great attention to the Holy Quran in its printing, publication, and teaching. The King Salman Award acquires special significance as it bears the name of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, which lends it local and regional weight and reflects the leadership's commitment to raising generations on the values of moderation and balance derived from the true teachings of the Quran. These competitions contribute to strengthening the Islamic and national identity of young people and connecting them to the primary source of Islamic law.
Widespread reactions among participants
During the competition, several participants expressed their pride in reaching this advanced stage. Omar bin Ayash Al-Anzi, a participant in the second category from the Tabuk region, emphasized that the award's association with King Salman's name gives it unparalleled prestige. He noted that preparing for the qualifiers required extra effort and meticulous review, and he praised the stimulating competitive environment provided by the Ministry.
For his part, contestant Saud bin Hamad Al-Thubaiti (third branch - Tabuk) explained that royal patronage is the first incentive for young people to memorize the Book of God, considering all participants to be winners with the honor of competing in this blessed field that raises the status of its owner in this world and the hereafter.
Preparation journey and intense competition
The road to the finals was not easy; it required navigating rigorous stages. Awad bin Sarhan, a contestant from the Hail region, noted the strength and prestige of the competition, explaining that he had participated in several preliminary rounds in his region before qualifying for Riyadh, reflecting the stringent standards of the competition. His fellow contestant, Abdulrahman Al-Rashidi (also from Hail), agreed, describing his participation as a "spiritual journey" that strengthened his connection to the Quran. He expressed his gratitude to the wise leadership and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for the professional organization befitting the status of the Holy Book.
The impact of the competition on society
The impact of this competition extends beyond individual rivalry to encompass a broad societal effect, fostering a spirit of healthy competition among the nation's youth and showcasing exemplary models of young Saudis committed to their faith and values. Furthermore, the substantial prize money (7 million riyals) reflects the state's appreciation for those who memorize the Holy Quran and its ongoing encouragement of Quranic talent, positioning the Kingdom as a global beacon in serving Islam and Muslims.
