People are respected in this world for possessing wealth and in the Hereafter for possessing righteous deeds.
Alī ibn Muḥammad al-Hādī (as)
According to Islamic culture, the Holy Quran is not only guiding from Allah but also a whetstone of mind.
In fact, a strange relationship has been confirmed by scholars and teachers for centuries between the memorization of the Grand Quran in children. In this article, we seek to locate the complementary relationship between memorizing Noble Quran and its impact on cognitive abilities of general intelligence (especially in young children) walking hand-in-hand with mental growth or emotional development as a consequence of spiritual practice.
Cognitive Benefits of Quran Memorization
One phenomenon that has been recieving much attention in educational and psychological research lately, is the cognitive advantages of memorizing the Pure Quran (a practice known as hıfz. One study by Sirin (n. d. investigated the impact of Quran memorization on different cognitive abilities of students in Istanbul. The research involved 33 participants from Imam Preacher Secondary Schools, who underwent neuropsychological assessments before and after their Hıfz education.
The results showed significant improvement in verbal memory, visual memory, verbal fluency, and attention after memorization time. This implies that studying intricate texts such as the Heavenly Quran could really boost cognitive abilities in the younger students.
Additionally, Metin (n.d. explored the relationship between reading the Holy Quran and cognitive function among older adults through a systematic review of five studies published from 2004 to 2023. The study found that consistent interaction with Quranic scripture was linked to better cognitive ability in older adults.
More interestingly, four of the five studies found a correlation between either the frequency or duration of reading and improved cognitive abilities.
Such results highlight the possibility of religious activities being a protective factor for the mental health and cognitive health of the elderly.
Also, Tarhan (2020) looked at the effect of memorizing the Holy Quran on the general cognitive abilities of Bohra Islamic School students in Karachi.
Using a mixed methods design this study showed not only increases in retention and concentration, but also key skills like time management and problem solving. Tarhan’s research shows that these improvements are not just limited to academic achievement but also include vital life skills that can be used in many different areas.
If children have to memorize a lot of verses from the Holy Quran, they have to concentrate so hard on pronunciation and syntax and rhythm.
This intense intellectual concentration naturally increases their attention span, and allows them to process and store information more efficiently. Consistent study of the Word of God also stimulates both sides of the brain, which helps with balanced brain development.
Therefore, those kids that have memorized the Grand Quran tend to have better memorization and cognitive flexibility than their peers.
Memory and Retention
The process of committing verses of Quran to memory involves a form of deep cognitive engagement known as rote memorization. In the field of psychology, rote memorization has been shown to enhance the brain’s capacity to retain and retrieve information.
Children who memorize the Sacred Quran develop strong working memory skills, which are critical for academic success.
They become adept at recalling vast amounts of information, a skill that proves valuable in both educational and everyday contexts.
Moreover, the structured nature of Quran memorization, which involves repetition, review, and recitation, helps reinforce neural pathways in the brain.
This strengthens not only memory but also other mental faculties, such as attention control and pattern recognition.
The cognitive benefits extend beyond memorization itself, as these children are better equipped to apply their enhanced memory skills to other academic disciplines.
Linguistic and Verbal Skills
The memorization of the Holy Quran, a practice deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, has been The ability to memorize the Noble Quran which is a common practice among many Muslims is known to improve linguistic and verbal skills in them significantly.
Studies show that the cognitive activities involved in Quran memorization include a lot more than text storage; they alter verbal memory, verbal fluency, and cognitive verbal skills in general.
For example, Sirin (n.d.) carried out a study in which neuropsychological measures were applied to 33 students ramadan memorization of the clear Quran and post-tests were done after 3 months of studying the quran. Examinations of the changes showed improvement in verbal fluency and memory scores that were substantially high, indicating that such strenuous mental work is carried out during the processes of memorization and more so the recitation of the language in question.
Also, the practices adopted in the current Islamic education systems also encourage this language development. For instance, Nadeem (n.d.) reviewed some instructional techniques which are based on the principles of teaching and learning overpowering memorization. These techniques do not only help students keep the lines of the poems but also provide a language rich context for learners.
Thus the learners are able to use the texts which are enriched with crafted language and help them appreciate the nuances of the language structure and usage.
In addition to that, Tarhan’s (n.d.) study also points out that the echoes of Quran learned by heart knowhow extend further even to the general academic performance of the Huffaz.
After the period of memorization, the research indicated significant enhancement in this area, which showed that improvement in verbal capabilities correlates with enhancement in school performance.
This points out that even the memorization of the Sacred Quran carries extra advantages which help the individual in his daily life and even in tasks that contribute towards other people in the same society he belongs to.
Children who memorize the Holy Quran often develop a keen sensitivity to language nuances, improving their ability to express themselves clearly and eloquently.
This skill transfers to their proficiency in other languages, including their native tongue, making them more effective communicators.
Emotional and Psychological Growth
The practice of Hifz, or memorizing the Grand Quran, is an important factor contributing to the growth of individuals emotionally and psychologically.
Studies have shown that Quranic recitation and its memorization is an effective intervention, which is not drug-related, in treating mental health problems of people experiencing anxiety, stress or depression (Moulaei, n.d.).
The recitation of the Pure Quran is rhythmic, which helps in instilling mindfulness and calmness in a person, and it may help redeem people from negative feelings. Such a type of training may result in developed emotional strength enhancing the coping strategies one has in overcoming obstacles in life.
In addition to this, there are also health reasons why an individual can or should memorize the Holy Quran without neglecting these factors in one’s daily psychological health.
In relation to this Haghdoost (n.d.) reports some cognitive enhancement among students in Hifz programs, such as verbal and visual memory, attention and verbal fluency. Besides the favor of academic success, these cognitive improvements also enhance the confidence and self-perception of individuals.
Memorization efforts are purposes for which individuals while seeing their mental abilities grow patterns, tend to acquire healthy rationalism that helps to uphold them.
Further, Bahaadinbeigy (n.d) discovered that non-former memoers tend to have enhanced academic performance and better quality of life after completion of the memorization course of the Sacred Quran. This implies that the discipline learnt during Hifz develops internal factors such as dedication and determination, which are critical for growth and development.
Overall, the exercise of memorizing the Holy Quran has a number of benefits in that it promotes psychological healing and growth in mental faculties, thus enhancing the overall mental development of an individual.
Furthermore, the act of reciting the Noble Quran has a calming effect on the mind. Studies have shown that rhythmic recitation can induce a state of mental relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
For children, this can lead to improved emotional regulation and a greater sense of inner peace. The sacred practice of Quran memorization also strengthens their spiritual connection, fostering a deep sense of purpose and self-worth.
Academic Performance and Intelligence
Too many researches have established a relationship between Quran memorization and academic performance.
It has been noted that children who are Quran memorizers tend to perform well in school as compared to other children, especially in subjects that are critical oriented as well as those that require a lot of memory and analytical abilities.
This is because the discipline and mental sharpness acquired through memorization is also applied to pursuit of academic work, helping them to understand complex ideas as well as solve difficult problems. It has been observed that aspects relating to the intelligence of an individual, which in this case refers to cognitive abilities such as logical reasoning, solving problems, and remembering things, are on the contrary, enhanced by Quran memorization.
Aside from this, this religious practice strengthens cognitive function such that any new information gained after previous learning is easily integrated into the already existing set of knowledge and utilized appropriately.
Social and Moral Development
The practice of ‘Hifz’, which means memorizing the Holy Quran, is not an activity solely confined to religion but also promotes social and moral upliftment of the people especially in the Muslim society.
This is an activity that encourages focus and commitment, which is crucial to self-development.
As such persons undergo the rigorous exercise of learning Quranic chapters by heart, they also learn endurance and management of time.
These skills are applicable in other fields of life and thus, give the youths the inclination to put the same effort and level of concentration in their studies and other ventures they may wish to undertake.
In addition, the practice of defining the Sacred Quran proves to create a unique bond between the practitioners. Most of these people pursuing this journey do it in groups or with the aid of someone in charge.
This in turn creates a healthy practice of belonging to a specific class which comes in handy soothing the individuals in their growing ages. This particular aspect unites the individuals and helps in development of a respectful relationship which in turn helps in the overall development of the individuals socially and emotionally as well.
Morally, this practice also involves a system, which the earnest adherents have to practice, practice and internalize wherein they are called to conscience the principles of ‘honesty’, ‘love’ and ‘fairness’. The verses act as behavioral corrective devices by embedding values that foster moral behavior in relationships. Therefore, people who have mastered the Noble Quran through recitation also acquire, from the very early stage, appropriate ethical principles that affect their choices and actions in the future.
Enhancing Focus and Attention
Focus and concentration are among the major points when it comes to the memorization of the Holy Quran. Young children are required to focus for long periods of time in order to learn the holy verses which, in turn, develops their attention span. Such skills are essential not only during learning processes as they help people who have such skills in carrying out tasks that require working for long hours with clear heads.
The children who memories the Pure Quran on a regular basis turn out to be more focused, and attentive in their studies which helps them perform better academically as well. The very quality which is demanding in rote teaching imbibes in children the spirit of hard work and high sense of responsibility, which is advantageous in children in many ways.
Neuroplasticity and Brain Development
Some recent research conducted on the study of the brain and its functions has shown that the brain has a rather high capacity for restructuring itself which entails forming new connections and reinforcing existing ones through learning and practice. Neuroplasticity is the name given to this ability of the brain’s structure to develop and grow upon over time. This construct is essential to brain development especially to that of kids. The rote learning of the Glorious Quran can be compared to physical exercises for the brain due to the sheer volume of information that the brain is required to process, store and retrieve; hence it encourages neuroplasticity.
Memorizing the Holy Quran makes use of mechanisms of memorizing which help in the development and fortification of neural structures of particularly, the systems used for encoding information, language and finding solutions to challenges. Hence, children who participate in this religious activity show better cognitive flexibility and functioning of their brains as a whole.
Neuroscience has developed wonderfully in the last few decades. More recent studies have shown that there is an ability of the brain to restructure itself. This includes making new connections and strengthening existing ones after some learning and practice. This capability of growing and developing the structure of the brain over time is called Neuroplasticity.
This construct is essential to brain development especially to that of kids.
The rote learning of Quran can be compared to physical exercises for the brain due to the sheer volume of information that the brain is required to process, store and retrieve; hence it encourages neuroplasticity.
Juz Amma Memorisation Course for Kids
One of the most common starting points for children embarking on their journey of Quran memorization is the memorization of Juz Amma, the 30th and final section of the Holy Quran.
This section is composed of short, rhythmic surahs (chapters) that are easier for young children to memorize due to their brevity and clarity. A Juz Amma Memorisation Course is designed specifically for kids to help them begin their Quranic memorization journey in an engaging and structured manner.
These courses often integrate fun, interactive methods to make the memorization process enjoyable for children.
Teachers focus on teaching proper pronunciation (Tajwid) and comprehension of the meanings of the verses, helping children not only memorize the sacred words but also connect with their spiritual significance.
The memorization of Juz Amma serves as a foundational milestone for young learners, instilling a sense of accomplishment and motivating them to continue their memorization of the Holy Quran, you can start The memorization of Juz Amma by referring to DarulQuran Academy courses.
In conclusion, the memorization of the Sacred Quran offers a wealth of cognitive, emotional, and spiritual benefits for children.
From enhancing memory and intelligence to promoting linguistic skills and emotional resilience, this sacred practice serves as a powerful tool for both intellectual and moral development.
The Holy Quran is not only a spiritual guide but also a means of enriching the mind and soul, equipping children with the skills and values they need to excel in life.
The introduction of courses like the Juz Amma Memorisation Course ensures that children can begin this transformative journey at a young age, laying the foundation for a lifetime of spiritual and cognitive growth.