Koran provides the ultimate memory test for Muslim boys

http://news.independent.co.uk/world/middle_east/article1834354.ece

They come from far and wide hoping to find instant fame in what is one of the Islamic world's most hotly fought-over competitions - young men and boys hungry to display their talent to the world.

But this is no glitzy ceremony searching for the next pop idol. This is Dubai's International Holy Koran Award, a highly prestigious recitation competition in which contestants as young as nine recite Islam's holy book from memory.

The annual award, sponsored by Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, held its final round last night. Eighty contestants from across the globe now have a nervous two-day wait before the winner is announced.

Reciting the Koran from memory, a practice known as tajweed, plays a central role in helping Muslims gain a deeper understanding of their faith. Entrants are expected to be able to recite the holy book - estimated to contain more than 77,000 words - in full.

considerably more than in the Koran. I can't imagine anyone wanting to memorize Levitiucs, Deutoronomy, or Numbers, but that's just my opinion.

Goddamn...if we could use those minds for something more productive.

Though it is unfair that the contest is restricted to males.