Nader Habib examines a religious alternative to the iPod The digital Qur'an, a pocket size device that hit the market two years ago, is a clear example of how technology is being employed in creative ways to serve people's spiritual needs. The high- tech gadget -- which retails for LE1,200 -- provides audio files for every Qur'anic sura (chapter), recited by prominent sheikh Mohamed El-Hosari, along with a bevy of other religious- related features. With a click of a button, users select the sura they want, as well as the speed at which they want it recited. Those who want to get through the holy book quickly usually choose the fastest mode. Those trying to memorise verses might use slow or medium. The device also allows users to choose classical interpretive texts from one of two prominent Muslim schools of thought (Hanafi or Shafii), to go along with the reading of the actual Qur'an. Other features include a digital compass that indicates the direction of Mecca based on the user's location. An alarm can be programmed to recite the call to prayer five times a day. Gamal El-Sharqawi, a marketing representative for the company that makes the device, said that, "although sales may not be as brisk as one would have expected during Ramadan, the digital Qur'an is increasingly in demand as an Eid Al-Fitr or Eid Al-Adha gift, and even on more secular occasions like Mother's Day." While economics student Marwa Mohamed said she appreciated the fact that the device can be conveniently used anywhere she may be, computer science instructor Hoda Kamel said reading the Qur'an was a sacred act requiring peace and quiet; as such, she doubted that listening to the digital Qur'an while commuting to work on a busy day, for instance, would be rewarding enough. El-Sharqawi, however, is hoping that with spare time harder to come by in today's fast-paced world, more people will resort to things like the digital Qur'an to keep in touch with their faith.
