IPA: /hɑːˈfiːz/
KK: /hɑːˈfiːz/
A person who has memorized the entire Koran and is often respected in the Muslim community for this achievement.
The hafiz recited verses from the Koran during the ceremony.
Hafiz is derived from Arabic "حافظ" (hāfiẓ), meaning 'guardian' or 'protector'. In Islamic tradition, it refers to someone who has memorized the Quran in its entirety, thus acting as a guardian of the holy text.
Think of 'guardian' or 'protector' when you hear 'hafiz', as it refers to someone who has memorized and thus safeguards the Quran.