Childhood and studies
Sheikh Mishary Rashid Alafasy was born in Kuwait in 1976. He grew up with the Qur'an, memorised it and chose to devote his life to the Book of Allah. For his studies he went to the Islamic University of Madinah, where he studied at the College of the Holy Qur'an. There he deepened his knowledge of tajweed and the various readings and learned from respected scholars of recitation.
Imam and reciter
Back in Kuwait he became an imam at the Grand Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-Kabir) in Kuwait City. Especially in Ramadan, when he leads the tarawih and night prayers, many people come to pray behind him. His complete murattal recording of the Qur'an is today among the most widely used recordings of all; it can be heard in countless apps, websites and mosques. Alongside the Qur'an, he is also known for his supplications and religious songs (nasheeds).
His style
Alafasy's recitation is clear, calm and very melodic. His voice is youthful and bright, the pace balanced – neither too slow nor too fast. He uses melody gently and always stays easy to understand, so you can follow every word on the page. Many people find his recitation especially accessible: it moves you without overwhelming you, and it invites you to listen again and again.
What you can learn from him
For learners, Alafasy is an ideal companion. His steady pace is excellent for memorisation: listen to a verse several times, say it back, and then read it without help. His pronunciation is distinct, his pauses are well placed, and his melody stays easily in the memory – a huge help with hifz. Children, too, often love learning with his voice.
In our player you can hear him verse by verse, with every single word highlighted. Try Learn mode: it pauses after each verse so you can read the explanation (tafsir) in peace before moving on.
May Allah preserve him and bless his work for the Qur'an.