Feb 28 β€’ 07:36 UTC πŸ‡ΆπŸ‡¦ Qatar Al Jazeera

From Derna to Sebha.. Libya's historic mosques revive the ritual of 'Khatm al-Quran' during Ramadan

During Ramadan, historic mosques in Libya become vibrant centers for prayer and spirituality, highlighting the practice of completing the Quran.

As Ramadan begins in Libya, mosques transform into lively spaces for prayer and spirituality, as the voices of imams resonate with the presence of worshippers engaging in Tarawih and Qiyam prayers. This article highlights five notable mosques throughout the country, which have gained significant popularity among locals and visitors alike. They are recognized for their high attendance, impactful recitations, and well-organized events that culminate in the full recitation of the Quran during this holy month.

One prominent mosque mentioned is the Mosque of the Companions in Derna, Eastern Libya. This historic landmark, originally built in the 11th century Hijri and reconstructed in its current form in 1970 with the initiative and funding from the local community, stands as a testament to the religious and national history of the city. The mosque is a resting place for the remains of 77 companions, among them Zahir bin Qais Al-Balawi and Abu Mansour Al-Farisi, who played significant roles in the Islamic conquest of Barqa, making it a spiritual and social hub for the community of Derna.

However, the Mosque of the Companions was severely damaged by the floods that hit Derna in September 2023, following Cyclone Daniel and the collapse of the city's dams. These devastating events have not only impacted the physical structure of the mosque but also the communal practices associated with it, leading to a significant loss for the religious and cultural heritage of the area. The revival of these prayers and rituals amidst such challenges highlights the resilience of the community in preserving its spiritual identity.

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