Amman Arab University Concludes the Fourth Edition of the Umar ibn Al-Khatab Quran Competition for Jordanian Universities
In a spiritual atmosphere filled with the essence of the Holy Quran, under the patronage of Professor Dr. Mohammad Al-Widyan, President of Amman Arab University, the College of Sharia organized the fourth edition of the Quran competition titled "Omar ibn Al-Khatab Competition for the Complete Quran: Recitation, Interpretation, and Memorization." The event saw the participation of over 50 male and female students from various Jordanian universities. Attendees included Professor Dr. Ismail Yamin, Assistant President for Academic Affairs; Ms. Nadia Al-Qudimat, Assistant President for Financial and Administrative Affairs; Engineer Dawood Al-Asaousi from the State of Kuwait; Dr. Bilal Abu Qadoum, Dean of the College of Sharia; representatives from Jordanian universities; deans of faculties; and members of the academic and administrative staff, along with university students.
The fourth edition of the competition stood out for its diverse levels, featuring six competitive categories. The first level was dedicated to the full memorization of the Quran, open to students from all Jordanian universities across the Kingdom, giving the competition a national character and fostering high-level competition among elite memorizers. The other five levels were exclusive to Amman Arab University students, allowing those excelling in memorizing specific portions of the Quran to compete. These levels accommodated various Quranic abilities.
A notable qualitative aspect of this year’s competition was the inclusion of tafsir (Quranic interpretation) as a competitive category. This addition provided participants with an opportunity to reflect on the meanings of the verses, linking memorization with understanding—a step aimed at promoting comprehensive Quranic awareness and establishing tadabbur (contemplation) as an integral part of a Muslim’s relationship with the Book of Allah.
Speaking on behalf of Professor Dr. Mohammad Al-Widyan, Professor Dr. Ismail Yamin stated that Amman Arab University takes pride in organizing such Quranic competitions, reflecting its commitment to its academic and educational mission in serving the Quran and its sciences. He emphasized that these events instill authentic faith-based and spiritual values in students. He noted that naming the competition after Al-Farooq Omar ibn Al-Khatab (may Allah be pleased with him) carries profound symbolism, evoking justice and steadfastness in truth—values aligned with the university’s goal of graduating a conscious generation capable of upholding the tolerant message of Islam. He affirmed that the university regards the people of the Quran as the chosen ones of Allah, bearers of light and guidance. He praised the blessed event and commended the College of Sharia’s tremendous efforts in organizing it, as well as its dedication to reinforcing the Quran’s status in students' hearts and conduct through quality activities and initiatives that nurture impactful Quranic generations.
For his part, Dr. Abu Qadoum highlighted the virtue of the Quran and the status of its bearers, stressing that organizing such competitions is among the greatest forms of service to the Book of Allah and its people. He described the event as an incentive for students to further engage in memorization and reflection. He explained that the competition embodies the college’s vision of instilling Quranic values and strengthening attachment to authentic Islamic identity, affirming that the people of the Quran are deserving of care, support, and honor. He also emphasized that such initiatives reinforce the approach of moderation—a principle advocated by the Quran—while steering clear of extremism or negligence. These efforts, he added, open broad horizons for youth to understand their religion correctly and balancedly, enhancing their intellectual and spiritual capacities and preparing them to be ambassadors of the Quran in their communities.
At the ceremony’s conclusion, the results of the full Quran memorization competition at the Jordanian universities level were announced:
- First place (Male category): Mohammad Samer Hassan from Hashemite University
- First place (Female category): Sondos Majed Khairy from the World Islamic Sciences and Education University.
At Amman Arab University’s level:
- First place (Level 6, Male category): Hazem Rashed Al-Khawaldeh
- First place (Level 6, Female category): Ranem Qasim.
- First place (Level 3, Female category): Layan Mohammad Abu Sarah.
This edition of the competition was marked by a high level of dedication and creativity, as affirmed by participants. It provided students with a precious opportunity to showcase their skills in memorizing the Book of Allah and competing in a spiritually enriching atmosphere. The prize distribution was as follows:
At the Jordanian universities level (Full Quran memorization):
- Second place (Male): Mohammad Abdulhadi from the World Islamic Sciences and Education University.
- Third place (Male): Tamem Barakat Al-Ali from the University of Jordan.
- Second place (Female): Alaa Ayash from Amman Arab University.
- Third place (Female): Boshra Hosam from Mutah University.
At Amman Arab University’s level:
- Second place (Level 6, Male): Ismail Nasher.
- Third place (Level 6, Male): Idris Mohammad.
- Second place (Level 6, Female): Mariam Ahmad Baker.
- Third place (Level 6, Female): Sara Al-Hashlamoun.
The results reflected the students’ preparation and excellence, motivating them to continue memorizing and reflecting on the Book of Allah.
