Studies on Qur’anic memorization have largely focused on techniques and historical transmission, rarely examining memorization within the broader living Qur’an ecosystem. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach informed by interpretive anthropology, this study investigates the tahfiẓ tradition across four pesantren in Sampang and Pamekasan, Madura. Fieldwork was conducted from July 2024 to June 2025 using in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation involving caregivers, instructors, students, alumni, and parents. Key research findings reveal three significant insights: Firstly, Transmission and Institutional Transformation: Sampang and Pamekasan host some of the oldest sanad (chain of transmission) networks in Indonesia. While institutions have adapted through formal schooling (e.g., Tahfiẓ High Schools), structural challenges persist, as much of the instructional time is spent on remedial reading (bin-naẓar) for non-resident students. Secondly, Retention Resilience: Post-pesantren memorization retention faces severe threats due to limited sustainable community support, economic pressures, and lack of advanced academic continuation. Communal recitation networks (semaan Kamis Wage) serve as crucial social mechanisms to sustain alumni retention. Thirdly, Reorientation of Motivation and Meaning: Public enthusiasm is driven primarily by spiritual blessings. Crucially, an internal shift is emerging from purely quantitative textual memorization (ḥifẓ al-lafẓ) toward contextual understanding (ḥifẓ al-qalb) and moral-practical enactment (ḥifẓ al-fi‘l). The study concludes that expanding tahfiẓ enthusiasm in Madura requires a systematic integration of textual memorization, Qur’anic comprehension, life skills, and a supportive social ecosystem for long-term retention.