Unknown - Quran - India (Bihar) - 1425

An exceptional large format Qur'anic folio, circa 1425, originating from Bihar, India, a prosperous state, lying south of Nepal close bordering the Ganges river, which became Muslim in the 12th century originally under the Bengal Governors. It is large format written in a unique cursive style called 'Bihari' which was used by India Qur'ans between the late C14th-C16th. The scripts main features re wide, extended horizontal lines and more delicate verticals. Decorative aya in gold separate the verses of the scripture. It is in remarkable condition given its age.

This folio contains verses 17-20 of Surah al-Qasas (The Whole Story), which chronicle a pivotal turning point in the early life of Prophet Musa (Moses). Following his accidental killing of an Egyptian taskmaster while defending an Israelite (events from verses 15–16), these verses capture his intense internal struggle, a second altercation, the discovery of his deed by the state, and his forced exile from Egypt. A scribal correction is found in the left margin as the main text had omitted some wording from the original.

Several core lessons can be drawn from this small narrative:
• Ethics of Non-Cooperation (Mu’awanah): Believers must not use their status or strength to support wrongdoers or tyranny.
• Rejection of Tribalism: Justice must override ethnic favoritism, as seen when Musa refused to blindly back the reckless Israelite.
• Prophetic Humanity: Experiencing fear does not contradict prophethood; natural vulnerability and caution are part of the human experience.
• Balance of Tawakkul and Action: Musa combined practical evasion (fleeing) with spiritual reliance (supplication to God).
• Divine Decree (Qadar): This crisis served as a necessary catalyst to remove Musa from royal comfort and prepare him spiritually in Midian.

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