Introduction: – Qari Abdul Basit Abdul Samad (1927 – 30 November 1988) was an esteemed Egyptian Quran reciter and Hafiz, widely regarded as one of the greatest Quran reciters in history. – He won three world Qira’at competitions in the early 1970s and was the first president of the Reciters’ Union in Egypt.
Early Life: – Born in 1927 in the village of Al-Maarazeh, Qena Governorate, Egypt. – He was deeply committed to memorizing and reciting the Quran from an early age. – His grandfather and father were both renowned Quran reciters, and he began memorizing the Quran at the age of six.
Education: – Completed memorization of the Quran by the age of ten. – Traveled to Tanta, Lower Egypt, to study Quranic recitations under Sheikh Muhammad Salim.
Career: – Officially began his career as a Quran reciter in Cairo at the age of 23. – Made his debut at the celebration of the birth of Sayyida Zainab, captivating the audience with his melodious voice.
Travels: – Traveled extensively, visiting countries like Pakistan, Indonesia, South Africa, India, Jerusalem, and many others. – Received with great honor and admiration wherever he went.
Honors and Awards: – Received numerous honors and awards from various countries, including Syria, Lebanon, Malaysia, Senegal, and Morocco. – Honored by several heads of state and received medals and orders of merit.
Illness and Death: – Suffered from complications due to diabetes and hepatitis. – Passed away on November 30, 1988, prompting a national and official funeral. – Survived by his sons, including Yasir and Tariq, who followed in his footsteps.
Legacy: – Qari Abdul Basit’s legacy continues to inspire Quran reciters worldwide. – A mosque in his native village of Armant in Luxor, Southern Egypt, was opened in his honor in 2006.
Full Quran Recitation: – Qari Abdul Basit’s recitations cover the full Quran, including Para 1 to 30. – His recordings stand as a testament to his mastery and devotion to the Quran, inspiring generations of Quran reciters.