Doha, Qatar – The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs recently concluded the fourth edition of the “Bilal Al-Asr” adhan competition, recognizing top Qatari high school students for their vocal skill and understanding of Islamic values. The ceremony, held at Sheikh Hamad Jassim bin Jabr Al Thani Mosque, celebrated the achievements of 20 finalists selected from an initial pool of 50 participants. This annual event aims to cultivate religious and moral character among Qatar’s youth.
The competition, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, took place over several stages, culminating in a final round judged on the quality and accuracy of the adhan, the Islamic call to prayer. Assistant Undersecretary for Dawah and Mosque Affairs Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Kuwari presented awards to the winners and participating schools, acknowledging the dedication of students and educators alike.
Strengthening Religious Values Through the Bilal Al-Asr Competition
According to ministry officials, the “Bilal Al-Asr” competition is designed to honor the legacy of Bilal ibn Rabah, a prominent companion of the Prophet Muhammad known for his beautiful voice and unwavering faith. The competition seeks to inspire young Qataris to embody similar qualities of devotion and moral excellence. This initiative reflects the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs’ broader commitment to promoting Islamic teachings and values within the community.
Collaboration Between Ministries
The partnership between the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education was highlighted as crucial to the competition’s success. Nasser bin Saleh Al-Marri, Head of the Sharia Sciences Section at the Ministry of Education, praised the collaborative effort, noting its positive impact on students’ character development. He encouraged participants to utilize their skills and knowledge to serve their communities, potentially taking on roles as muezzins or prayer leaders in the future.
The event featured a live performance of the adhan by one of the finalists, showcasing the talent nurtured through the competition. This demonstration underscored the importance of proper pronunciation and spiritual connection in delivering the call to prayer. Certificates of appreciation were then awarded to all participating schools and the top ten students.
Winners and Prizes
Jassim Khalifa Mohammed Ahmed Al-Hammadi secured first place in the competition, receiving a financial prize of QR7,000. Amer Hassan Al-Hassan Al-Fuhaida placed second, earning QR6,000, while Mohammed Hamad Mubarak Al-Sulaiti took third place with a prize of QR5,000. Prizes decreased incrementally to QR2,000 for the tenth-place winner, Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed Al-Obaidli. Students ranking from eleventh to twentieth each received QR1,500 as a reward for their participation and effort.
The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs emphasized the importance of recognizing and encouraging excellence in religious practice. The adhan competition serves as a platform for students to develop their skills and deepen their understanding of Islamic traditions. Additionally, the event fosters a sense of community and shared values among young Qataris.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has not yet announced a specific date for the fifth edition of the “Bilal Al-Asr” competition. However, officials indicated they anticipate holding the event again next year, continuing to provide opportunities for Qatari youth to engage with their faith and develop their talents in the art of the adhan. Future iterations may explore expanding the competition to include more students and potentially incorporating additional elements of Islamic knowledge and practice. The Peninsula Qatar provides further details on the event.
