32nd International Holy Qur’an exhibition opens in Tehran
Qur’an lasting miracle to guide humanity: Minister
The 32nd edition of the International Holy Qur’an Exhibition began on Wednesday at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla in Tehran, inaugurated by Tehran’s interim Friday prayer leader, Hojatoleslam Mohammad-Hassan Aboutorabi Fard, and Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, Abbas Salehi.
During the opening ceremony, minister Salehi emphasized the Qur’an’s unique and enduring nature, describing it as a divine miracle that continues to guide humanity, IRNA reported.
“The exhibition should help us understand the miraculous aspects of the Holy Qur’an and bring us closer to its profound intellectual and spiritual dimensions,” he added.
He said that while other divine scriptures were revealed in a single instance, the Qur’an’s gradual revelation nurtured both the Prophet and his followers over time, shaping Islamic civilization step by step.
Salehi further elaborated on the Qur’an’s unparalleled nature, saying, “the miracles of past prophets were witnessed by specific communities, and their accounts were passed down through narration. However, the Qur’an remains a perpetual miracle—observable and accessible to all.”
He stressed that the Qur’an’s wonder is not confined to any one aspect but encompasses sensory, intellectual, and spiritual realms, elevating human consciousness in multiple dimensions.
Under the theme ‘The Qur’an, the Path of Life,’ the exhibition features participation from government officials, lawmakers, religious scholars, and cultural figures, IRNA reported.
Hojatoleslam Hamidreza Arbab Soleimani, head of the exhibition, emphasized the importance of such events despite technological advancements, describing the exhibition as a continuous effort for spiritual growth rather than a repetitive initiative. “Qur’anic activities strengthen our connection with the divine message and guide us towards a righteous life. Holding this exhibition during Ramadan provides an opportunity for self-improvement,” he said.
The event spans 20,000 square meters and includes 37 content-focused sections. Fifteen governmental institutions, 40 public organizations, and 120 religious publishers are participating, showcasing over 4,300 books. The international segment hosts delegations from 15 countries.
Running until March 16, the exhibition will feature 58 specialized sessions, 26 Qur’anic gatherings, and a closing ceremony honoring Qur’anic figures, attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian.
This year marks a unique scheduling overlap, as the 31st edition was held during Ramadan in March-April 2024, while the 32nd edition aligns with the early days of the holy month, concluding just before the Iranian New Year.