Gaza girl memorizes Quran after airstrike kills her family
Wafaa Al-Attar, 13, completed the recitation at a ceremony in Khan Yunis following the February 2024 strike that left her the sole survivor of her household.
By Chioma Brooks ·
Wafaa Ahmed Al-Attar, 13, has completed the memorization of the entire Quran. The achievement fulfills a specific goal set by her father, Ahmed Al-Attar, before he was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Deir al-Balah.
The strike occurred on February 22, 2024. It killed Wafaa’s mother, Khouloud Azam, and her four siblings: Rital, Muhammed, Obada, and Yazan. Wafaa was outside the home collecting a battery when the explosion hit. She sustained minor injuries and subsequently lived with her grandparents and an uncle.
Ahmed Al-Attar encouraged his daughter to begin memorizing the Quran during her childhood. He expressed a desire to see her honored at a ceremony for those who memorize the holy book. Wafaa continued the process after his death, citing his wish as her primary motivation.
In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Al-Attar identified herself as the daughter of a martyr and a memorizer of the Book of God. She stated that her father was her sole supporter and main pillar of strength.
"Whenever I felt I couldn't complete the memorization of the Quran or might stray from the path, I would remember my father and his wish, that I memorize the Book of God and recite it in its entirety," she said.
The final ceremony took place at Al-Qubba Mosque in Khan Yunis, in southern Gaza. The event honored approximately 215 Quran memorizers. It was organized under the "Quranic Revelation Generation" program, which is supported by the Gaza Life Union Foundation.
Al-Attar dedicated her accomplishment to the memory of her parents and siblings. She noted that while they were not physically present, they remained central to her motivation.
"I am proud of myself, but all the credit goes to my father, may God have mercy on him. He was my sole supporter and main pillar of strength, and he encouraged me to memorize the Quran. I wish he was here with me at this moment," she said.
Religious texts cited in connection with the event note that parents of children who memorize and practice the Quran are promised rewards. A hadith reported by Al-Hakim and graded authentic by Al-Dhahabi states that such parents will be clothed in two garments unlike anything in worldly life on the Day of Judgment.
The narrative of Wafaa Al-Attar was first documented by Nour Khalil Khattab for We Are Not Numbers. That account, titled "The Inspiring Journey of Wafaa Ahmed Alattar," was published on July 2, 2024.
