Qiyam-ul-Lail continues at Faisal Masjid

ISLAMABAD, Mar 15 (APP):During the last decade of Ramazan, (National Mehfil e Shabeena )Qiyam-ul-Lail continues at Faisal Masjid with the collaboration of Dawah Academy of International Islamic University (IIU) and Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.

Earlier, in the start of the last decade, the inaugural ceremony of the National Mehfil e Shabina (Qiyam-ul-Lail ) was held at Faisal Masjid.

The event was attended by religious scholars, academics, social figures and 500 faithful people observing Itikaf at the mosque.

Addressing the ceremony, Director General Dawah Academy Prof. Dr Muhammad Ilyas expressed gratitude to Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Secretary Ministry of Religious Affairs Dr Sajid Mahmood Chohan and Director General Ministry of Religious Affairs Hafiz Abdul Quddus for their cooperation in organizing the event.

He said that in previous years the National Shabina gathering was limited to three nights; however, with the support of the Ministry of Religious Affairs it has now been extended to seven nights. The extension allows reciters to read the Holy Quran with proper pause and reflection while ensuring convenience for listeners.

Prof. Dr Muhammad Ilyas noted that the spiritual initiative, which started in 1989, continues with the same spirit of promoting the recitation and understanding of the Holy Quran.

He welcomed the participants observing Itikaf at Faisal Mosque and said that the month of Ramazan strengthens the relationship of believers with the Quran. He added that listening to the complete recitation of the Quran during Qiyam-ul-Lail provides a valuable opportunity for spiritual reflection and learning.

He also urged participants to remember Pakistan, the armed forces and institutions responsible for maintaining peace and order in their prayers, acknowledging their sacrifices for national security.

He further called for prayers for unity in the Muslim world and for the protection and wellbeing of Muslims and oppressed communities across the globe.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General Ministry of Religious Affairs Hafiz Abdul Quddus said that the collaboration between the Ministry and Dawah Academy has continued for many years. He explained that reciters who achieve distinction in district, provincial and national level competitions are selected to recite the Holy Quran during Qiyam-ul-Lail at Faisal Mosque.

The initiative aims to promote Quranic recitation and provide a platform for young Qaris to present their abilities.

During the start night, the first four units of Taraweeh prayer and the recitation of the first part of the Holy Quran were led by Prof. Dr Muhammad Ilyas, while the second part was recited by Qari Khalid Muhammad Durrani. The third and fourth parts were recited by Qari Sajid Kamal and Qari Yahya Anwar.
The ceremony was hosted by Dr Qari Zia ur Rehman, Incharge Faisal Mosque Islamic Centre.