Hifz-e-Qur’an projected as cognitive counter to AI at Bohra community iftar

Hyderabad, February 24: The growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on human cognition and creativity came under discussion at a Dawoodi Bohra community iftar gathering in the city, where speakers underscored the importance of Hifz-e-Qur’an as a means of strengthening the mind.

Addressing the gathering during his visit to Hyderabad, Dr. Ilyas Najmi, a close relative of Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, conveyed guidance issued by the community’s spiritual head. He observed that while AI has brought unprecedented speed and convenience, it has also contributed to declining memory retention, reduced patience, shorter attention spans and an increasing tendency towards mental complacency.

“When machines remember and process information for us, the human mind risks becoming passive,” Mr. Najmi said. “Hifz-e-Qur’an strengthens memory, sharpens focus and cultivates patience – qualities that are essential in any era, especially one dominated by automation.”

Earlier in the evening, Egyptian Qurra (reciters of The Holy Quran)  from Al Azhar University on a short visit to Hyderabad rendered a soulful recitation of the Holy Qur’an, before the breaking of the fast.

Mr. Najmi emphasised that memorising the Qur’an is not only a spiritual pursuit but also a rigorous intellectual discipline requiring repetition, concentration and sustained effort.

 “A person who memorises the Qur’an develops a strong and resilient mind, capable of excelling in any field whether medicine, technology, business or governance,” he said.

He reiterated that in the Bohra understanding, there is no dichotomy between modern and religious education. Through Umoor-e-Taaleemia, the educational wing of the community’s administrative framework, programmes are structured to promote both Qur’anic learning and contemporary academic excellence.

The Dawoodi Bohra community functions through a decentralised system known as the 12 Umoor, which oversees education, welfare, finance, health, public relations, dispute resolution and other aspects of community life. Speakers noted that this structure enables coordinated and transparent operations.

Reference was also made to the community’s interest-free financial model, administered under Umoor-e-Iqtesadia, in line with Qur’anic injunctions against riba (interest). The system, it was stated, promotes ethical entrepreneurship and mutual financial support.

Mr. Najmi called for simplicity in living and greater care for others, urging members to uphold core Islamic values. He also highlighted the role of Faiz-ul-Mawaid al-Burhaniyah (FMB), the organised community kitchen system that provides daily meals across centres, ensuring that all members irrespective of economic status partake in the same food.

Among those present on the occasion were Mr. Zuhair, Irfan Hussain, Shabbir Taz, Maulana Peer Shabbir Naqshbandi along with local community representatives and volunteers.

The gathering concluded with prayers for unity and intellectual resilience followed by dinner.