Al-Azhar Nears Completion of Its Special Quran Manuscript Project

IQNA – Egypt’s Al-Azhar is approaching the final stages of its exclusive Quran manuscript project, with most of the work now completed, according to Mohamed Al-Duwaini, Deputy of Al-Azhar.

Speaking at an Arabic event at Al-Azhar Grand Mosque, Al-Duwaini announced that a nationwide competition was held to select Egypt’s most skilled calligraphers and illuminators for the project.

“Three calligraphers and six illuminators advanced to the final round, with each calligrapher transcribing one complete Juz' of the Quran,” he stated.

Following evaluations by a committee of expert calligraphy professors, the honor of completing the manuscript was awarded to Master Calligrapher Mahmoud Al-Sahli. Al-Duwaini noted, “With the project's completion, Al-Azhar will have its own distinctive Quran.”

The seminar featured a special exhibition showcasing the finalists' works and included workshops and discussion panels on the history of Quranic transcription.

Highlighting the cultural significance of art in Islam, Al-Duwaini said, “Art is a vital part of Islamic culture. Muslims have excelled not only in literary arts such as poetry and prose but also in architecture, calligraphy, illumination, and Arabic ornamentation.”

He added that calligraphy has been central to Islamic scholarship, stating, “Through careful transcription and illumination of the Quran, Muslims have preserved their sacred text. Calligraphy also played a key role in producing scientific manuscripts by scholars.”

The third Arabic Calligraphy and Illumination Seminar, organized under the supervision of Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb, commenced on February 17 at Al-Azhar Grand Mosque. The event, attended by Al-Azhar scholars and renowned artists, will run until February 25.

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