‘Father of Qaris’: Al-Azhar Honors Sheikh Mohammed al-Sayfi
The tribute came as part of Al-Azhar’s “Qudwa” (Role Model) project, which highlights prominent figures in Islamic scholarship. September 25 marked the anniversary of Sheikh al-Sayfi’s death.
“Sheikh Mohammed al-Sayfi was a shining figure in Quran recitation and Islamic sciences. He combined mastery of the ten canonical readings with humility and devotion,” the center said in a statement carried by local media.
Born in 1885 in the village of al-Barada’a in Qalyubia governorate, al-Sayfi memorized the entire Quran by the age of ten. In 1904, he moved to Cairo and later graduated from Al-Azhar University’s Faculty of Sharia and Law in 1910. His studies and dedication turned him into a leading scholar in jurisprudence, Quranic sciences, and the art of recitation.
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His reputation grew across Egypt and beyond, earning him the title “Abu al-Qurra,” or “Father of Reciters.” He trained a generation of leading reciters, including the late Sheikh Kamel Yusuf al-Buhteimi, and his influence reached both scholars and the public.
Al-Sayfi’s recorded recitations were broadcast on Egyptian Radio and transmitted internationally via stations in London, Berlin, and Moscow. He also participated in the inauguration of Egypt’s Quran Radio, where he was among the first to recite after its establishment.
Known for his humility and powerful delivery, he maintained close friendships with other iconic reciters such as Sheikh Mohammed Rifaat, Sheikh Ali Mahmoud, and Sheikh Taha al-Fashni.
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“Sheikh al-Sayfi’s recitation carried the spirit of reverence and conveyed the message of the Quran to the world,” the Al-Azhar center added.
Al-Sayfi passed away in September 1955 at the age of 70.
What follows is his recitation of verses 57-78 of Surah al-Kahf.
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