Pronunciation: [hˈe͡ɪfɛz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Hafez" can be a bit confusing due to the unique sounds found in its pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, the spelling is "hæfɪz", with the "h" pronounced as in "hot" and the "æ" sounds similar to the "a" in "cat". The "f" is pronounced as in "foot", followed by the short "i" as in "hit". The final "z" is pronounced as in "buzz". So, the correct spelling of "Hafez" is "hæfɪz".
Hafez, also spelled as Hafiz, is a term referring to a title given to an accomplished Persian poet during the 14th century, Khwāja Shams-ud-Dīn Muḥammad Ḥāfeẓ-e Shīrāzī. Hafez is hailed as one of the finest and most revered poets in the Persian literary tradition. His works have greatly contributed to the richness and depth of Persian poetry, making him an influential figure in Iranian culture.
The title "Hafez" itself signifies "memorizer" or "guardian" of the Qur'an, as Hafez was reputed to have memorized the entire holy text. However, Hafez's primary renown stems from his mastery of ghazal poetry, a form synonymous with Persian culture. Ghazal, a poetic style characterized by its intensity, passion, and complex metaphors, was employed by Hafez to explore themes of love, spirituality, and the mystical connection between human and divine.
Hafez's poetry is celebrated for its lyricism, musicality, and profound spiritual insights. His verses often contain layers of symbolic and hidden meanings, requiring deep contemplation to fully comprehend the richness of his words. Hafez's works transcend language barriers, capturing the hearts and minds of diverse readers throughout the centuries.
Today, the term "Hafez" not only refers to the poet himself but is also used colloquially to describe someone who possesses an exceptional memory, particularly when it comes to memorizing poetry or texts. It serves as a tribute to Hafez's ability to memorize the Qur'an and his elevated position in the literary canon of Persian poetry.
