Ruqaiya Saifee, a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community in Seattle, exemplifies the power of lifelong learning and determination. Encouraging her two sons, Mohammed and Abbas, to memorize the entire Quran by the age of nine, she soon realized that their journey could also be hers. Inspired by their perseverance, she set out, balancing family life with study and ultimately memorizing the Quran in 2024.
Every Parent’s Wish
Every parent hopes to instill values in their children, but the strongest are not just taught—they are lived. A mother who reads raises a child who loves books. A father who leads with kindness teaches how to be kind without saying a word. For Ruqaiya Saifee, a mother of two from the Dawoodi Bohra community of Seattle, faith was no different. She wanted her sons to not just know the Quran but to embrace it.
The Quran, the holy book of Islamic faith, holds a central place in the lives of Dawoodi Bohras and Muslims worldwide. Memorizing its more than 77,000 words is an achievement that demands and builds discipline, perseverance, and faith. Reciting the Quran is a daily practice for Muslims, especially during Ramadan, and memorizing its words deepens connection to its meanings.
When her first son, Mohammed, was just three years old, she began introducing him to the Arabic alphabet and small chapters of the Quran through playful, immersive learning techniques. As Abbas, her second, grew, he followed in his brother’s footsteps, absorbing recitations as he played with his toys. Learning was incorporated into and formed their daily routine, as Ruqaiya made sure it felt natural and enjoyable.
The Path to Memorization
Later, in pursuit of more structure, Ruqaiya traveled with her sons to Nairobi, Kenya, in 2017 for a two-year Quran memorization program.
“This environment provided an amazing routine and support system to help my kids memorize the Quran,” Ruqaiya recalled.
There, Mohammed, at 7½ years old, committed himself fully, while three-year-old Abbas listened attentively, absorbing the rhythm of recitation. By the age of five, Abbas had begun his own memorization of the Quran, and Mohammed was progressing steadily.
As they advanced, Ruqaiya strove to ensure that memorization never became a burden. The boys started with a few hours of study each day, gradually increasing their commitment. Both had memorized the entire Quran before turning ten.
A Mother’s Determination
Watching her sons' dedication, Ruqaiya felt determined to take on the same challenge. Over seven years, she balanced family life, pushing through early mornings and late nights. Alongside her studies, she also remained active in community outreach efforts such as donation drives and volunteer initiatives.
“She sacrificed sleep and ease but never wavered,” her husband, Aliasgar, recalled. “Today, as she stands as a hafiz (one who has committed the Quran to memory) alongside our sons, I feel immense pride.”
Her teacher at Mahad-al-Zahra, Mohammed Electricwala, commended her persistence. “Her effort and consistency were remarkable. She set an example for her children and community.”
By 2024, she had committed the Quran to memory.
Leading By Example
Ruqaiya had set out to nurture faith and perseverance in her children. In doing so, she became the very example she hoped they would follow. She did not just encourage their dreams; she made them her own, reminding us that the most enduring legacies are not just taught; they are lived. And of course, in raising our children, we discover the very best in ourselves.
