The North American Qira’at-ul-Qur’an Competition is an annual event held at the Islamic Foundation of Toronto.  The Competition was established to encourage youth to compete against each other in the categories of Qira’at and Hifz-ul Qur’an. By the grace of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala this blessed event has been attended by over 2000 spectators in its previous years.

With modest beginnings, the North American Qira’at-ul-Qur’an competition was first held in May 2006 with approximately 60 local competitors and judges. 

The 2nd Qira’at-ul Competition expanded and grew as it allowed individuals from all over North America to compete. This year also included a Girls’ Competition to allow young sisters to also showcase their talent. The Girls’ Competition is now a regular component of this prestigious competition.  Esteemed international Qurra were invited to serve as judges for the competiton, including, Sheikh Ramadaan Al-Hindawi from Egypt, Qari Mohammad Siddique from India, and Qari Ahsanullah Farooqui from Pakistan. 

In 2009, the 4th Annual North American Qira’at-ul Qur’an Competition grew by leaps and bounds, with over 400 applicants.  Judges included Qari Mohammad Siddique from India, Qari Muhammad Saad Nomani from Pakistan, and Qari Ayoob Essack from South Africa. Guest Hafiz Kamal Uddin was also in attendance.

By the Grace of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala , the 6th Annual North American Qira’at-ul-Qur’an and Hifz Competition took place this past March of 2011 with great success. The Pre-Test was expanded across Canada to allow those living outside the city to compete via webcam in the Pre-Test. The Girl’s program was held one week prior to the boy’s competition, with approximately 170 girls taking part in the Pre-Test. Of those 170, 100 were chosen to participate in the actual competition. The boy’s competition was held a week later with over 270 applicants in the Pre-Test. 120 were chosen to advance to the Qira’at-ul-Qur’an and Hifz Competition. Judges for this competition were Qari Muhammad Saad Nomani from Pakistan and Qari Muhammad Siddique from India. Recitations during the program were also performed by world-renowned Qurra - Qari Muhammad Atta-ur-Rehman and Qari Abdul Majid Noor.

The purpose of the Competition is to build and strengthen the relationship between Tahfeezul Qur’an and Tajweed. In our society, it is imperative to fortify the link between the youth and the Qur’an and increase the love for the Qur’an. The Holy Qur’an is the guidebook for all of mankind and adherence to its tenets will result is success in both this life and the Hereafter. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Ankaboot “And those who strive in our (cause) We will certainly guide them to our paths. For verily Allah is with those who do the right”.