Thursday (01/13/2022), the Qur'anic Studies and Islamic Arts Development Student Activity Unit (UKM PIQSI) at UIN Saizu Purwokerto held a Musabaqah Hifdzil Qur'an (MHQ) competition for participants from across Java Island.

One of the contestants in this prestigious event was Syifaul Alami, a first-semester student of the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FDI) from Brebes, Central Java. Not only did she participate, but Syifa also emerged as the first-place winner in the competition.

Speaking to the journalist team, Syifa shared her feelings: “Alhamdulillah, I am happy, and I truly didn’t expect to win because nearly all the participants performed excellently.” She credited her success to Allah’s blessings, sufficient time for preparation through practice and revision (muroja’ah), and the continuous prayers and support from her parents.

This victory was not Syifa's first; she had previously won awards in similar competitions. “I’ve won second and third place before,” she said. The competitions she participated in were held in various locations. Syifa’s achievements stem from her dedication to memorizing the Qur’an since graduating from Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs).

“The Qur’an is my loyal companion, my guide in life that I must always follow, and my compass when I go astray,” she explained to the journalist team. She also expressed how the Qur’an brings her peace when facing challenges and prevents feelings of loneliness. Additionally, the Qur’an helps her strive to become a better person each day.

When asked for tips on memorizing the Qur’an, Syifa shared some valuable advice:

1. Seek the blessings and prayers of your parents to ease the process.
2. Be earnest and dedicated throughout every step of memorization.
3. Stay consistent in your efforts and pay extra attention to similar-sounding verses.

At the end of the interview, Syifa left an inspiring message for readers to maintain their connection with the Qur’an:

• First, purify your intentions solely for Allah.
• Second, set aside specific time daily for memorizing and revising the Qur’an.
• Lastly, guard your heart against spiritual ailments.

“Challenges will always come, whether in the form of laziness, fatigue, or even arrogance. Do not let these feelings defeat you; instead, rise again and continue memorizing the Qur’an. And most importantly, always seek help from Allah SWT. Keep going, friends!”

(FDI Journalist Team: Adzka Ma'ziya Rahimi)