The manuscript of the Uthmanic Mushaf preserved at the Library of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan is currently undergoing codicological examination.
This research involves a team of scholars including Shaykh Alijon Qori Fayzullah, Head of the “Qur’an and Tajwid Education” Department; Kamoliddin Mahkamov, Head of the Library Department; and Jahongir Qori Nematov, Head of the “Qur’anic Studies” Department at Tashkent Islamic Institute.
Shaykh Alijon Qori Fayzullah emphasized the importance of observing accuracy and trustworthiness when studying and reproducing the script of the Mushaf. He highlighted significant rules of orthography and recitation (qira’at) related to the original handwriting of the Uthmanic Mushaf currently kept at the “Muhi Muborak” Madrasa Museum.
The digital copy of the original Uthmanic Mushaf serves as the main object of the study. In preparing the critical text, researchers also refer to other ancient copies of the Mushaf preserved in Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Each line of the manuscript is being carefully rewritten, with verse and line numbers marked in red. Any textual discrepancies found in the 19th-century copied version are noted in the margins and explained through scholarly commentary.
With the support of the Fund for the Development of Culture and Art of Uzbekistan, both local and international experts — including Dr. Christine Rose from the University of Cambridge, French restorers Achel Delaeau and Coralie Barbe, and Nil Baydar, Head of the Istanbul Manuscripts Workshop and Archive Department — have developed a phased restoration plan to ensure the long-term preservation of the sacred manuscript.
Press Service of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan
Dr. Mohammed Said Amur Al-Hajri, a member of the State Council of Oman (Senator) and a participant in the 1st International Forum of Islamic Civilization “The Path of Peace, tolerance and enlightenment” held on July 7–11 this year in cooperation with ICESCO, shared his impressions of the forum on his “X” social media page, reports Dunyo IA.
According to the Senator, International Forum, which brought together religious figures, scholars, researchers, thinkers, and experts from 80 countries, served as an important platform for strengthening inter-civilizational dialogue and promoting the ideas of tolerance and enlightenment.
High-ranking official from Oman noted that during the forum, he had the opportunity to familiarize himself with Uzbekistan's experience in the modern presentation of Islamic civilization heritage. In his view, the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, along with the scientific and educational complexes in Samarkand and Termez, are shining examples of how the rich heritage of great ancestors can be effectively transmitted to new generations, presenting history in an engaging and accessible format using modern technologies.
Furthermore, Dr. Mohammed Al-Hajri stated that in his report titled “Intellectual potential of Islamic Civilization: Historical experience and its examples”, presented within the framework of the forum, he paid special attention to the experience of the First and Second Renaissances in Uzbekistan. He characterized the Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent as a practical embodiment of a wise approach aimed at strengthening national development and nationwide unity.
“I was particularly pleased by the respect shown to Oman, its history, culture, and policy based on the principles of tolerance. Cultural cooperation between Uzbekistan and Oman relies on the shared spiritual values of our peoples”, - Senator wrote.
He also noted that during the meetings in Samarkand and Termez, he was once again able to experience the traditional hospitality and openness of the Uzbek people. In conclusion, the Senator expressed confidence that Uzbekistan, possessing a rich historical heritage, will continue to make a worthy contribution to the development of the Islamic world and all of humanity.