Al-Azhar Mosque — a revered meeting spot for all

CAIRO: Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo stands as a revered sanctuary, uniting both Egyptians and foreigners in spiritual devotion, particularly during the evening and Taraweeh prayers held throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

Witnessing a daily influx of worshippers, the mosque possesses a profound spirit of camaraderie, brotherhood, and unity, drawing individuals from all corners of Egypt and across the globe.

Nazir Ayyad, secretary-general of the Islamic Research Academy, noted the profound significance of the mosque, describing it as a sacred space where hearts intertwine, cultures harmonize, and physical boundaries dissolve in the collective act of prayer and repentance.

Ayyad underscored the mosque’s pivotal role in nurturing the Ramadan ambiance, guiding fasting individuals on their spiritual journey, and seeking divine blessings for all who gather within its hallowed halls.

Echoing this sentiment, Hassan Al-Saghir, head of Al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Preachers, emphasized the diverse congregation that converges on the mosque from various regions of Egypt and over 100 countries, alongside students enrolled in Al-Azhar.

Within this vibrant tapestry of worshippers, renowned Qur’an reciters lead the evening and Taraweeh prayers, enriching the spiritual experience for all who partake. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the mosque’s media center broadcasts prayers live on social media platforms, ensuring that those unable to physically attend can still join in the communal worship experience.

Abdel Moneim Fouad, general supervisor of scientific activities at the mosque, highlighted the comprehensive Ramadan program, which encompasses a myriad of recitations, gatherings, and communal celebrations, alongside the provision of thousands of daily meals for foreign students, embodying the ethos of generosity and communal support.

Amid the throngs of worshippers at Al-Azhar Mosque, individuals such as Ahmed Sayed, a 45-year-old worker from the nearby Al-Hussein area, find solace and spiritual rejuvenation performing Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan.

Despite the proximity of the mosque, Sayed reserves his visits for the holy month, drawn by the serene spiritual atmosphere and the melodious recitations of the Qur’an by revered sheikhs.

Similarly, Othman Khashout, a student from Chad and enrolled in Al-Azhar, attested to the profound significance of Ramadan at the mosque.

For Khashout, Ramadan heralds a time of joy and fulfilment, as he revels in the bustling ambiance of the mosque, adorned with meticulous cleanliness and organized prayer arrangements.

He particularly appreciates the presence of esteemed Azhar scholars leading the prayers, further enriching the spiritual experience for all who gather in worship.

In essence, Al-Azhar Mosque serves as not only a physical place of worship, but also a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and communal unity, where individuals from diverse backgrounds converge to seek solace, guidance, and divine blessings during the sacred month of Ramadan.