Algeria has officially launched a new presidential prize dedicated to the study of the Prophet's biography. The "Prix d’Algérie de la biographie du prophète El Khalida" was established by presidential decree, which was subsequently published in the latest edition of the Official Journal. The institution of such an award by presidential decree shows the high-level governmental commitment to its objectives. President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, instituted the award, according to the decree, signaling the national importance attributed to this initiative.
Objectives and Scope of the Prize
The newly established "Prix d’Algérie de la biographie du prophète El Khalida" seeks to motivate the study of the biography of Prophet Mohamed (peace and blessings be upon him) and his moral qualities. It aims to encourage the memorization and understanding of the noble prophetic text across various age groups, while also instilling prophetic values, particularly among younger generations. This full approach ensures that the prize fosters a deeper engagement with the life and teachings of Prophet Mohamed among diverse segments of the Algerian population. The initiative is designed to promote not just academic study but also practical application of these values in daily life.
Additionally, the presidential prize intends to highlight Algeria's governmental interest and the broader attachment of Algerians to the Prophet's biography and the noble prophetic text. This initiative shows the state's commitment to promoting religious and moral education rooted in Islamic traditions. The prize serves as a recognition of the significance of Prophet Mohamed's life and teachings within Algerian society, reflecting a deep cultural and spiritual connection. By emphasizing both the state's interest and the popular attachment, the prize reinforces a sense of collective identity and shared values.
Competition Structure and Awards
The prize structure incorporates an annual national encouragement competition specifically for young memorizers of the noble prophetic text. This category is designed to nurture early engagement with the prophetic tradition. Additionally, an annual national competition is held for memorizing the noble prophetic text, catering to a broader age range of participants. An international competition is organized every three years, also dedicated to memorizing the noble prophetic text, inviting global participation and elevating the prize's prestige on an international stage.
For the national encouragement competition targeting young memorizers, who are required to identify the narrator of 100 prophetic texts, the first-place laureate receives 500,000 DA. The second-place winner is awarded 350,000 DA, and the third-place recipient collects 200,000 DA. These monetary awards aim to provide significant incentives for young participants.
The national competition for adult memorizers, which involves identifying the narrator of 400 prophetic texts, offers a first prize of 1,000,000 DA. The second laureate in this category earns 750,000 DA, while the third-place winner is granted 500,000 DA. The higher prize amounts for adults reflect the increased difficulty and scope of memorization required.
In the international competition, also for adult memorizers demonstrating knowledge of 400 prophetic texts and their narrators, the top laureate is awarded 3,250,000 DA. The second-place participant receives 2,500,000 DA, and the third-place prize is 1,500,000 DA. These substantial international prizes are designed to attract top talent from around the world and further enhance the competition's prominence.
Administration and Timing
A national week dedicated to the noble biography of the Prophet is organized, culminating in the prize award ceremony. The prize is presented on the occasion of Moharram, the month of "Al Hidjra bénie," a significant period in the Islamic calendar. The competition for the prize is initiated by a decree from the Minister responsible for Religious Affairs, who is tasked with establishing the specific conditions and methods for participation. This ensures a clear and regulated process for all contestants. Additionally, specialized jury commissions are formed to evaluate entries in the field of memorizing the noble prophetic text. These commissions are composed of both national and international experts, selected from researchers distinguished in the field of prophetic text and biography, guaranteeing a high standard of evaluation and fairness in judging.