Unknown - Qur'an - Bihar India - 1425

An illuminated bi-folio miniature from a Qur'an originating in the state of Bihar, India, circa 1425.

The folio contains the concluding verses of the Meccan chapter 32, al-Sajdah (The Prostration), v.26-30, followed by the illuminated header of chapter 33, Al-Ahzab (The enemy Alliance) and v.1-5, opening "O Prophet, fear God and do not obey the disbelievers and the hypocrites..."

Verses 26 to 30 of Surah As-Sajdah (Chapter 32 of the Quran) serve as a profound, rhetorical warning. They urge humanity to observe historical and natural signs, recognize the reality of the Day of Judgment, and understand that belief will no longer be accepted once that Day arrives.

Verses 1-5 of Surah Al-Ahzab lay down fundamental principles for a righteous society. They command absolute devotion to God, outline the supremacy of divine revelation, and radically reform ancient societal structures—specifically by abolishing pre-Islamic practices of adoption and redefining family lineages to protect justice and truth.

It is written in a Arabic naskh (possibly Maghribi) script, with black ink and red diactritical markings to guide the devotee through prayer. In this case there are 16 lines of fine script with gold 'aya' marking the verses and multiple 'Allah' in gold thuluth font. The folio has a decorative marginals marking the beginnings of these shorter chapters. Two medallions are shown on the reverse marking the 20th and 25th verses of chapter 32.

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