Principles of Professional Ethics in Judging Qurʾān Competitions

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, Lorestan University, Lorestan, Iran

2 Corresponding Author, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Islamic Studies and Thought, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Objective: This study seeks to identify and formulate the principles of professional ethics governing adjudication in Qurʾān competitions. The central problem addressed is the absence of a codified ethical charter for this profession, despite the widespread and continuous organization of Qurʾānic competitions in Iran. The research investigates the following question: What ethical principles ensure both accurate adjudication (i.e., correspondence with objective reality) and ethical adjudication (i.e., avoidance of injustice toward participants) ?
Method: The study was conducted using the Grounded Theory methodology. Data were collected through 34 in-depth interviews and semi-structured questionnaires involving 19 judges and 15 competitors with experience at provincial and national levels. Purposeful sampling continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding. To deepen and substantiate the findings, relevant Islamic teachings were also incorporated into the analytical framework .
Findings: Data analysis yielded 28 principles of professional ethics classified into two main categories :
1. Principles related to organizers (9 principles), including :
- Selection of competent judges; - Systematization of the adjudication process; - Measurability of evaluation criteria; - Transparent communication of regulations; - Adherence to official bylaws; - Ensuring equality among participants; - Transparency in results; - Granting the right to appeal; - Implementation of second-level adjudication (supervisory review)
2. Principles related to judges (19 principles), including :
- Avoidance of self-interest; - Commitment to fairness; - Acceptance of adjudication when qualified; - Awareness of the moral weight of ḥaqq al-nās (rights of individuals) ; - Avoidance of partial or fragmented judgment; - Reliance on objective criteria rather than comparative impressions; -Avoidance of speculative reasoning beyond sensory perception; - Intelligent response and emotional regulation; - Freedom from prior assumptions; - Independence of judgment; - Confidentiality; - Preservation of contestants’ dignity; - Avoidance of halo effects; - Avoidance of personality-based judgment; - Control of emotional reactions; - Maintenance of concentration; - Acceptance of fallibility
Conclusion: The codification and observance of these 28 principles can enhance the quality of adjudication in Qurʾān competitions, institutionalize justice and fairness, foster Qurʾānic talent development, and promote Qurʾānic ethical values within society

Keywords


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