The objective of memorising the entire Quran is more than rote learning as it is meant for one to internalise the deeper meanings of the text and reflect its teachings in practice by living a just, peaceful and productive life. 

For millions of Muslims around the world, Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion. It is a month when the holy Quran is recited more than at any other time, and its memorisation brings immense blessings. Among the Dawoodi Bohras of Australia and New Zealand, two young individuals—Shabbir Shakir, 17, from Melbourne, and Mariyah Hamid, 16, from Auckland—have undertaken the remarkable journey of committing the entire Quran to memory.

Their experiences share themes of perseverance, faith, and a deep connection to the teachings of Islam.

Finding Inspiration

For both Shabbir and Mariyah, the journey began in childhood. Encouraged by their families, they started memorising the Quran at an early age, not fully grasping the magnitude of their commitment but driven by a sense of purpose.

Shabbir recalls being deeply moved during the Ashara Mubaraka gathering in Colombo in 2019, a ten-day period of sermons and reflection marking the martyrdom of Imam Husain, grandson of Prophet Mohammed. Attending such sermons inspired him to pursue memorisation with greater dedication.

Similarly, Mariyah’s memorisation journey began at six at her parents’ encouragement. Over time, she realised it was not just an act of devotion but a source of immense joy. “This realisation transformed my approach as it made me self-motivated as opposed to being nudged before,” she said.

Overcoming Challenges with Faith and Discipline

Memorising the Quran requires discipline and consistency. Both Shabbir and Mariyah faced struggles but found ways to persevere.

For Shabbir, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his routine and motivation. However, the admission to Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah, the Dawoodi Bohra community’s premier educational institute where students study Islamic and academic subjects, reignited his enthusiasm.

Mariyah initially balanced memorisation with school, later spending nine months at a memorisation school in Galyakot, India, a significant pilgrimage site for the Dawoodi Bohras. When the pandemic brought her back to New Zealand, she transitioned to homeschooling and an online Quran programme. Eventually, she too got an admission to Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah where she completed her memorisation in her first year.

The Role of Ramadan in Their Journey

Ramadan holds special significance for those who have memorised the Quran. It is a time when recitation and reflection multiply, deepening one’s connection to the holy text. For Mariyah, completing her memorisation has enriched her Ramadan experience, allowing her to engage in longer recitations. “Having memorised the entire Quran, I can now participate in prayers in a more meaningful way,” she says. Shabbir feels the Quran’s messages become even more meaningful during Ramadan, reinforcing discipline, reflection, and gratitude.

Both Shabbir and Mariyah agree that consistency is key. Memorising the Quran is not about rushing through pages but ensuring retention and understanding.

Shabbir developed techniques such as reciting in different locations, making the most of early morning hours, and testing himself by reciting entire chapters without looking. “Failure is part of the journey,” he says. “Persistence, discipline, and faith make the difference.” Mariyah used a structured revision schedule, reciting new verses repeatedly before moving on. “No matter how you feel, revision must be non-negotiable,” she advises.

Now that they have completed their memorisation, both Shabbir and Mariyah focus on preserving their knowledge through regular revision.

Shabbir hopes to mentor future Huffaz—those who commit the entire Quran to memory—study Quranic arts and deepen his understanding of Arabic poetry. Mariyah is committed to understanding the Quran’s meaning through her studies at Aljamea and also hopes to inspire others in their memorisation journeys.

A Testament to Devotion This Ramadan

As Ramadan approaches, the stories of these two young Dawoodi Bohras serve as a reminder of the dedication and faith required to memorise the Quran. Their journeys reflect personal achievement and a deep connection to their faith, community, and the guidance of His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, the leader of the Dawoodi Bohras.