Yasiin Bey, the artist formerly Mos Def, has left fans and followers in awe with a heartfelt Quranic recitation that’s taking the internet by storm. In a video clip shared on social media on May 10, 2025, the Brooklyn-born rapper and actor is seen reciting verses from the Quran, Islam’s holy book, before humbly asking for forgiveness for any mistakes in his Arabic pronunciation. This powerful display of faith and humility has resonated deeply, showcasing Bey’s spiritual side in a personal and universal way.
The clip captures Bey in a moment of reverence as he sincerely recites the sacred text. At the 1:30 mark, he concludes his recitation with the phrase
“SadaqAllahul Azeem,”
meaning
“Allah, the Exalted, has spoken the truth,”
a common expression of respect for the Quran’s divine words. What follows is even more striking: Bey, aware of the challenges of reciting Arabic as a non-native speaker, offers a heartfelt supplication.
“For me, forgive me my error,”
He says at 2:05, continuing,
“Please forgive any mispronunciation or any error that I made in my recitation.”
His words reflect the Islamic practice of seeking forgiveness, known as istighfar, for unintentional mistakes, especially when engaging with the Quran’s sacred text.
Bey’s humility doesn’t stop there. He prays that his recitation benefits others, saying,
“Let it be a benefit to the people in this realm and beyond,”
Before sealing his prayer with
“Amen”
At 2:19, this moment of vulnerability and hope has struck a chord, highlighting Bey’s role as an artist and a spiritual figure who bridges cultures. Known for weaving Islamic themes into his music, like his iconic album Black on Both Sides, Bey’s choice of the name Yasiin, inspired by Surah Yasin, the 36th chapter of the Quran, underscores his deep connection to his faith.
The video’s viral spread on platforms like X shows how Bey’s authenticity resonates. His acknowledgment of potential errors in pronunciation speaks to the challenges many non-Arab Muslims face when reciting the Quran, where precise Arabic pronunciation is crucial to preserve meaning. Yet, his focus on sincerity over perfection aligns with Islamic teachings that emphasize intention and effort in worship. By sharing this moment, Bey invites others to reflect on humility and the universal pursuit of spiritual growth.
This isn’t the first time Bey has used his platform to uplift and inspire. His career, spanning music, film, and activism, has always conveyed truth and connection. But this viral clip feels uniquely intimate, offering a glimpse into his personal faith journey. Fans have flooded social media with praise, calling the moment “beautiful” and “inspiring,” while others see it as a reminder of the power of vulnerability in a world often obsessed with perfection.
