The legendary Abdul Basit – 1956

The Unforgettable Recitation by Ustad Abdul Basit in The Harram of Imam Kadhim and Jawad a.s.

In 1956, the Islamic world witnessed a moment of profound spiritual beauty. The mother of King Faisal II of Iraq had passed away and to honor her memory, a memorial ceremony was held in Baghdad. Among the guests were some of the most renowned Quran reciters from Egypt. The legendary Abdul Basit, along with Abdul Fattah Shasha’i and Abu Al-Aynayn Shaisha’, were invited to lend their voices to the occasion.

But it was Abdul Basit’s recitation that would etch this event into history. Standing in the sacred city of Kadhimayn, he was overcome by the spiritual energy of the gathering. Before he began, he sought permission from the noble Imams buried there—Imam Musa al-Kadhim (AS) and Imam Muhammad al-Jawad (AS). With a heart full of reverence, he recited Surahs Al-Hashr, At-Takwir, and Al-Fajr. His voice, filled with emotion and devotion, resonated through the air, leaving an indelible mark on all who listened. This recitation would later be celebrated as one of the three greatest masterpieces of Quranic recitation in the Islamic world.

When asked about that unforgettable moment, Abdul Basit humbly reflected, “If my recitation seemed exceptional, it was only because it took place in the sacred presence of these noble Imams. I was deeply moved, and the atmosphere itself carried me through.”

He also recalled the sea of people who had gathered in the courtyard of Kazimayn, standing shoulder to shoulder, their hearts united in listening to the words of the Quran. Abdul Basit remarked, “If the people hadn’t been inconvenienced, I would have gladly recited for hours in that sacred place.”

The attached audio is the full recording of that recitation.

Special note for 09:48