Unknown - Qur'an - Bihar India - 1425

A rare illuminated miniature bi-folio from a much used and frail Quran originating in the state of Bihar, India, circa 1425. It would likely have been a travelling companion for a merchant. It is in fair condition, with some colour discolouration and devotional use markings, but is extremely rare and would be a prized manuscript for any collector or recipient.

It contains scripture from verses 1-9 of the Meccan chapter 19, Mariam (Mary), which The first nine verses detail Zachariah's secret prayer for a successor and the divine response promising him a son despite his old age and his wife's barrenness. The key meanings of this scripture are Verses 1-2 (19:1-2) which begins with the disconnected letters Kaf, Ha, Ya, 'Ayn, Sad. The meaning of these letters is known only to Allah. These are followed by a mention of Allah's mercy to His servant Zachariah. In verses 3-4 Zachariah prays to his Lord in secret, acknowledging his old age and physical weakness while expressing his unwavering faith in Allah's response to his prayers. Verses 5-6 he requests a successor from Allah, fearing that his kinsmen are not suitable to continue his spiritual legacy, and his wife is barren. He asks for a righteous son who will inherit the prophetic tradition and be pleasing to Allah. Verses 7-9 Allah gives Zachariah the glad tidings of a son named Yahya (John), a unique name. Zachariah expresses surprise due to his and his wife's condition, to which Allah replies that it is easy for Him, as He created Zachariah when he was nothing. This highlights Allah's power over creation.

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 9 lines of fine script, with simple gold 'aya' marking the verses and red diacriticals providing devotional direction. Any reference to 'Allah' is in gold leaf.

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