TEHRAN -- An Iranian Qur’an memorizer says one who has captured the beauties of the Holy Qur’an cannot bear to be separated from it.
For Roqayeh Rezaei, a finalist in the 47th National Qur’an Competition of Iran, memorizing the Qur’an has been a lifelong journey of devotion, discipline, and family support.
Rezaei sat for a brief talk with IQNA on the sidelines of her participation in Iran’s national competition in Tabriz on Friday.
Starting her Qur’anic journey at the tender age of five, Rezaei credits her mother for instilling this passion in her. 
“My success in the field of the Qur’an is thanks to my family, especially my mother, who encouraged me to enroll in Qur’an classes and supported me every step of the way,” she explained. 
Rezaei believes that following the Qur’an’s teachings is the key to true happiness. “The Qur’an is always a source of guidance. If someone gives even a little attention to it, they will be so captivated by its beauty that they cannot bear to be separated from it,” she said. 
Addressing those aspiring to memorize the Qur’an in its entirety, she encouraged persistence. 
“The more one engages in this path, the more they will taste its sweetness. A delightful thirst for learning the Quran will take hold of them,” she added. 
Now an educator in a rural village, Rezaei finds fulfillment in teaching. She emphasizes the importance of building trust with her students to inspire them toward the Qur’an and other pursuits. “Without earning their trust, it’s impossible to have a meaningful impact,” she explained. 
For teachers aiming to guide students toward the Qur’an, Rezaei advocates for tailoring their approach to the children’s perspective. 
“A teacher, especially one who is a Qur’an reciter or memorizer, must convey the Qur’an’s essence in a way that resonates with their audience. You have to speak in the language of a seven-year-old and consider their background when presenting any concept,” she said. 
Rezaei highlighted the value of indirect teaching methods, drawing inspiration from Islamic traditions. “Just as Imam Hassan (AS) and Imam Hussein (AS) taught an elderly man how to perform ablution through indirect guidance, anyone engaging in cultural education today must master indirect teaching,” she advised. 
When asked about the Qur’anic verse that brings her the most peace, Rezaei cited verse 17 from Surah as-Sajdah: “No one knows what delights have been kept hidden for them [in the Hereafter] as a reward for what they used to do.”
“This verse deeply resonates with me,” she said.