Quranic Affairs

The Legacy of the Quran in South Africa

The legacy of the Quran in South Africa dates back to the arrival of Imam Abdullah Ibn Qadi Abdus Salaam, known as Tuan Guru. While he was imprisoned as a political exile on Robben Island, he wrote several copies of the Glorious Quran from memory. His commitment and dedication to the Quran left a legacy that has shaped the landscape of South African Muslims for the past 300 years. It continues to form a vital part of the Islamic structures that are dedicated to preserving, teaching and promoting the pristine and divine miracle of the Glorious Quran.

Establishment

The Department of Qur’anic Affairs was established in 2003 after a strategic visit by the Secretary-General of the International Organization for the Quran and Sunnah, Dr Abdullah Ali Basfar. He was assisted by the then Deputy President of the MJC, Moulana Ihsaan Hendricks, who believed that establishment of a specialist department working exclusively for the promotion and benefit of the Quran was vital for this community. The official launch of the Department took place on 15 June 2007 at the Owal Masjid, in Cape Town, the first and oldest Masjid in South Africa. The occasion remains a historic landmark for the South African Muslim community and reflects the value placed on preserving the guidance of Allah through His book, The Holy Quran.

Aims and Objectives

The purpose of the Department of Qur’anic Affairs is to strive through the grace of Allah Almighty to stimulate and perfect the recital, knowledge and understanding of the Holy Quran. The Department further provides a platform that supports and guides teaching methods. It aims to produce a wealth of skilled, qualified teachers and reciters who are unified through a standard that promotes internationally established, superior and optimum methods of Quranic recitation, memorization and teaching. The objective is to stimulate and enhance the quality of recitation through a vibrant platform of integrated local, national and international Quranic institutions. This has resulted in numerous National and International Quran Hafith who participate in various competitions.