When I am asked who I consider to be the most accomplished people, I normally think of scientists, doctors or people who overcame great obstacles to be in the great positions they are in now. Little do I think of religion when I reply. However, after taking this class, my mentality has changed. Huffaz al-Quran are extremely accomplished people. Hafiz al-Quran literally translates to “Guardian of the Quran” and is used to denote one who has memorized the Quran in its entirety. In Islam, a Hafiz is looked highly upon for he or she would have achieved the ultimate. This title isn’t thrown around recklessly—Huffaz are tested on their knowledge. For example, in one test they are asked to continue the recitation of a passage taken randomly from the Quran. Since they do not know which passage will be chosen, they must know the whole text in order to be sure of passing. In another test, a would-be hafiz might be asked to recite verses containing a specific word or phrase.
The significance of a Hafiz dates way back in early Islam. The Quran was revealed very early when most of the audience was still illiterate. The only way to keep the sacred words alive was by memorizing and passing them down until a capable person could eventually write it. Memorization was also considered to be more secure—a manuscript could easily be destroyed, but if the Qur’anwas to be memorized by many huffaz, it would never be lost.
For my project, I made a jersey. On the upper back is the word Hafiz written in multiple colors and filled with different arabesque designs. Underneath this is the number 99, which refers to the 99 names of God. The tag of the shirt reads “Not for Sale, Must be Earned.” The point of this shirt was to highlight the success of Huffaz. Just like athletes have jerseys to signify their physical potencies, this jersey symbolizes spiritual strength. I chose to make this on a green-colored shirt because green is associated with Imam Husayn and because green is the color of nature, something that plays a big role in Islam and Islamic art. Though modesty is a key aspect in Islam, I believe that a Hafiz should be recognized not only for the glory but also in order to inspire others or be located easily in the time of need.
Insha’Allah this shirt will be put to use one day.
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