Unknown - Qur'an - Bihar India - 1425

A miniature leaf from a much used and frail Quran originating in the state of Bihar, India, circa 1425. It is in excellent condition with vibrant colours and little age related damage.

It contains scripture from verses 36-39 of Surah Ar-Rum (The Romans) highlights Allah's absolute control over sustenance, stating that He extends provision (rizq) to whom He wills and restricts it for whom He wills, emphasizing this as a sign for believers. Key verses conveying this message are also found in Surah Az-Zumar (39:52), and Surah Ash-Shura (42:12), all showing that abundance or scarcity of provision isn't a sign of Allah's favour or displeasure, but rather a demonstration of His wisdom and power, with the ultimate reality of the Hereafter far surpassing worldly life.

It is written in a distinctive style of script called Bihari (after the State), characterised by wide, heavy and extended horizontal lines, and thin verticals. In this case there are 17 lines of fine script. Simple gold 'aya' marking the verses and red diacriticals providing devotional direction. Any reference to 'Allah' is in gold leaf. A magnificent illumination innate marginal marks the 60th verse of the chapter, written in gold, which marks the acknowledgement that God created the heavens and the earth.

Because Bihar is a warm and humid province, manuscripts from there, do not generally keep well. This bi-folio has however survived well, with minimal devotional use and strong colours to the marginal Juz. There are multiple references to Allah's (written in Gold) omnipotence.

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