Unknown - Quran 'fragment' manuscript - 1720

A fragmented Quranic manuscript from Kashmir c.1720. The manuscript consists of 8 folios (4 pages), scribed within the gold framed and burnished gold panels, with extensive commentary in the margins of all the individual leafs.

The fragments contain scripture from chapter 23, Surah Al-Mu'minun (The Believers), v.10-106 (of 118 verses). There is substantial Persian commentary in the margins, characteristic of Persianate Qur'an manuscripts: central Arabic Qu'ranic text; extensive diagonal Persian commentary (Tafsir) around the margins); verse markers in god; blue and gold ruling.

This core section of chapter 23, transitions from defining the moral traits of successful believers to recounting prophetic histories and providing theological proof of the Resurrection. The core themes espoused are: Qualities of Believers (10–11) in which true believers are told they will inherit Al-Firdaus (highest Paradise). Stages of Human Creation (12–14) which details the biological development of human life from an extract of clay to a sperm-drop, clot, and fetuses, serving as proof of Creator power. The Reality of Life and Death (15–16) which reminds humanity that after life, resurrection on the Day of Judgment is certain. Prophetic Narratives (23–92) which share the trials of past prophets—including Noah, Moses, Aaron, and Jesus—demonstrating that all messengers faced rejection by arrogant elites yet were ultimately vindicated by God. Oneness of God vs. Multiplicity (91–92), rejecting the concept of divine plurality or offspring, establishing absolute divine unity (Tawhid). And finally, Atheism and the Accountability of the Hereafter (99–106), llustrating the final regret of the disbelievers on Judgment Day, where they cry out that their wretchedness overwhelmed them and beg to return to earth—a request that is denied.

It is written in clear Naskh calligraphy, with verses indicators (red dots) and diacritical markings in red offering devotional guidance to the reader.

The general condition is very good. This is a most interesting historical fragment of an almost complete chapter of the Qur'an, and would grace any collection.

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