Ali Al-Baraq: The voice of Ramadan, present in every Tunisian home
The article reflects on the legacy of the late Sheikh Ali Al-Baraq, a beloved Quran reciter whose voice has become synonymous with the month of Ramadan in Tunisia.
As the time for iftar approaches, the streets of Tunisia fill with silence, disrupted only by the sweet and pure voice of the late Sheikh Ali Al-Baraq, reciting verses from the Holy Quran. His melodious recitations resonate not only during Ramadan, marking the holy month for many Tunisians, but they also feature prominently throughout the year on national television, which opens and closes its broadcasts with his recitals. Al-Baraq's distinctive voice is a cherished part of religious observances, including Friday prayers, and is an essential element of the spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan.
Sheikh Ali Al-Baraq, who lived from 1899 to 1981, hailed from Rabaâ Thlath in Kairouan, central Tunisia, where he absorbed the essence of authentic Quranic culture before moving to the capital in the early 1930s. Despite becoming blind as a child, his disability did not hinder his remarkable accomplishments in the field of Quranic recitation. He memorized and recited significant Islamic poetry, praises of the Prophet Muhammad, and works related to the lives of saints and revered figures in Islam, significantly enriching the cultural heritage of Tunisia.
Al-Baraq's contributions to Islamic culture and Tunisian identity resonate strongly, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. His voice not only signifies the arrival of this sacred month but also plays an integral role in the daily lives of Tunisians, reminding them of their spiritual roots and cultural traditions. The article underscores the importance of preserving such legacies that have shaped the religious landscape of Tunisia and highlights the profound impact of Al-Baraq’s recitals on the collective memory of the nation, making him a lasting symbol of connection to faith and tradition during this special time of year.