King Abdulaziz Public Library, which is in Saudi Arabia, has revealed a 1000-year-old manuscript. This is titled ‘Gharib Al Quran’ and is authored by the early scholar, Abu Ubaidah Mamar Ibn Al Muthanna. The 1,000-year-old manuscript is being displayed, and here’s all you need to know about this development if you happen to be a history enthusiast.
King Abdulaziz Public Library Displays 1000-Year-Old Manuscript
Dating to the fourth century, this manuscript comprises 23 folios. It measures 17 x 22 cm and is written in clear Andalusian script. As revealed in a report of the Gulf News, the names of Surah have been inscribed in Kufic Script, and it remains an unpublished work in Quranic sciences. As mentioned by the library, the collection includes a wide range of rare manuscripts. These are on Quranic interpretation and linguistics, spanning several centuries.
Archives Hold 185 Rare Manuscripts
Talking about these collections, they include the works of Abu Ishaq Al Zajjaj and Ibn Qutaybah Al Dinawari. Yes, and there are also parts of Tafsir al Tabari, which is said to have been copied in the sixth century. The archive here holds 185 rare manuscripts on Quranic exegesis. Not only this, but there are 100s of texts which also cover recitation, grammar and interpretation.
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A Rare Collection Of Manuscripts, Coins & More
Talking about the library, it aims to showcase a rare collection of manuscripts, coins, photographs, artefacts, and documents. It also plans to open new avenues for studying and engaging with heritage. Located in Riyadh, the library here also provides and organises all forms of intellectual output. From books and periodicals to audiovisual materials and manuscripts, history officials can find various forms of knowledge. With a remarkable collection of more than 8,000 manuscripts, there are 32,000 red books and 700 ancient maps here.
So truly a vast sea of knowledge for those who seek it, this library is worth checking out if you are someone who wants to delve deeper into the past.
Cover Image Courtesy: spa.gov.sa
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Where is King Abdulaziz Public Library?
The King Abdulaziz Public Library is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Is Ithra free to enter?
There are some places inside the Ithra that do require tickets for entry, like the cinema and the children's Museum.
What is the Ithra library?
It is a haven for readers where 3,86,000 books are offered to discover.