Hawzah News Agency- Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Hojatoleslam Hamidreza Arbab Soleimani, head of the Quranic Affairs Center at Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, said the exhibition will take place at the Mosalla of Imam Khomeini under the slogan “Iran in the Shelter of the Quran.”
He described the slogan as an “identity anchor,” reflecting the foundational role of the Quran in shaping Iran’s cultural and spiritual life.
Ramadan and the Centrality of the Quran
Arbab Soleimani noted that this year’s exhibition coincides with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, the month in which the Quran was revealed. He highlighted fasting as a source of piety, equality, and moral refinement, adding that Ramadan holds a unique status in the Islamic calendar due to the revelation of the Holy Quran during this month.
“Fasting is not exclusive to Muslims,” he said, “but Ramadan possesses a distinct spiritual rank because it is the month of the Quran’s revelation.”
Strategic Planning and Policy Framework
The official outlined a multi-stage planning process for the exhibition. The first step was the establishment of a permanent secretariat in early spring. This was followed by the formation of an advisory council, which held 18 sessions focused on qualitative programming. A policy and planning council was then formed, developing 24 operational programs. A high-level policymaking council chaired by the Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance was also convened to oversee the event’s broader direction.
Among the strategic priorities identified for this year’s exhibition are strengthening the role of family, promoting the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt, highlighting classical Islamic texts such as Nahj al-Balagha and Sahifa Sajjadiya, advancing Quranic diplomacy, and utilizing emerging technologies and knowledge-based enterprises.
Fourteen Thematic Axes and Technological Innovation
The exhibition will be organized around 14 thematic axes, including:
- Healthy games and educational programs for children
- Media production and artistic creations
- Creative and cultural industries
- Problem-oriented research initiatives
- New book releases and publishing
- Modern educational approaches, including artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
According to organizers, this year’s event will feature 70 sub-events and exhibition booths.
Nationwide Reach and Expanded Participation
In a move aimed at promoting cultural justice, parallel Quran exhibitions will be held in 24 provinces across the country. Organizers say participation by various institutions has increased compared to previous years.
Other key features include critical review sessions of Quran translations, introduction of selected superior translations, nightly Quran recitation gatherings, unveiling of distinguished cultural works, and expanded public engagement.
A special section will be dedicated to the Prophet of Islam, with enhanced international programming. The exhibition and sales sections will be hosted in the main prayer hall of the Mosalla.
Academic Engagement and International Presence
Arbab Soleimani confirmed that specialized academic panels and expert meetings will be held throughout the exhibition. Visiting hours are scheduled daily from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Regarding financial support packages for cultural institutions and students, he acknowledged budgetary constraints but said discussions are ongoing with the Ministry to allocate supportive book vouchers.
This year, a dedicated and independent research and applied studies section has been established, bringing together the capacities of both religious seminaries and universities. Art universities, including Soore University, are expected to have a strong presence.
On the international front, the Tehran Quranic Meeting will be held with the participation of eight prominent Quranic scholars alongside 12 international artists. Foreign artists are scheduled to remain in Tehran for one week as part of a broader effort to strengthen cultural and Quranic diplomacy.
Officials say the 33rd edition of the exhibition aims to combine tradition with innovation, reinforcing the Quran’s central place in Iranian society while leveraging modern tools and global engagement to expand its reach.
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