The Grand Imam directs launching a comprehensive project to preserve the Quranic heritage of renowned Quran reciters

During his meeting at Al-Azhar with Ms. Hanaa Hussein Rifaat, granddaughter of Sheikh Muhammad Rifaat, His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Prof. Ahmad Al-Tayyeb directed the restoration of one hundred rare records containing previously unreleased recitations by Sheikh Muhammad Rifaat, known as “The Harp of Heaven.” These records, recently discovered, represent a significant portion of the available recordings of this unique Quranic voice. The restoration of these records will bring the total number of Sheikh Muhammad Rifaat's recitations of the Holy Quran to 70%.

His Eminence affirmed that Al-Azhar will spare no effort in preserving, safeguarding, and disseminating the legacy of Sheikh Muhammad Rifaat's recitations in a manner befitting the stature of the late qāriʾ (reciter), may Allah have mercy on him. This stems from al-Azhar's historical responsibility to preserve the Quranic heritage of renowned reciters and in appreciation of Sheikh Rifat's esteemed position as a prominent figure in the world of Quranic recitation.

His Eminence also directed the leaders of Al-Azhar to study launching a comprehensive project to preserve the Qur’anic heritage of senior reciters, and to communicate with the relevant authorities to collect recitations and readings that have not yet been broadcast, to document this heritage and preserve it for future generations.