Amulet, most likely from the 19th century.
The manuscript, which contains verses from the Koran and invocations is
written on a long scroll of vellum placed in a silver hexagonal tube with a cap.
Three loops for a chain allow the amulet to be worn as a necklace. The amulet
is written in a long central column surrounded by eight colored rectangular
compartments. The central part is written in black ink in ruq‘ah/ naskhi script,
while the compartments are in large thuluth script. The central column contains
Surat al-Qadr “The Chapter of Power (ch. 97),” in reference to “Laylat al
Qadr” (The Night of Power) in which the Koran was revealed to the Prophet
Muhammad, and falls on the 27th of Ramadan. This is followed by Surat alFatihah “The Opening Chapter” (ch. 1), followed in order by a long
invocation asking God for help and guidance, the famous Shi‘i invocation of
‘Ali (the first imam) and a magic square. All texts are ruled in gold. All these
verses and invocations are meant to have magical powers to protect the owner
of this colorful amulet. The compartments contain an elaborate invocation
asking God to protect the bearer of the amulet. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
al-Qanun fi al-Tibb [Canon of Medicine] by Ibn Sina (Avicenna; 9801037). Parts IV and V only. 1 Rabi‘ al-Awwal 1018 / June 4, 1609.
One of the most important works on medicine in the Middle Ages. The text
was translated into Latin by Gerard of Cremona in the 12th century and into
Hebrew in 1279. The Canon medicinae had great influence in the West and
was known to Leonardo da Vinci. With its encyclopedic content and systematic
arrangement, it soon attained a position of pre-eminence in the medical
literature of Europe, displacing the works of Galen as the medical text book in
European universities. Arnold C. Klebs described it as “one of the most
significant intellectual phenomena of all times.” While the Canadian physician
Sir William Osler, called the Qanun “a medical bible for a longer time than any
other work.” Part IV deals with the various diseases afflicting the human body.
Part V deals with medicinal remedies. The manuscript is written in clear and
elegant naskhi script in black ink on white paper, with headings, key words, and
markings in red. Bound in recent morocco, with a flap, in the Islamic style of
bookbinding. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Two Manuscripts in Persian & Arabic. Ramadan 1307 H / April/May
1890.
1. Sharh-i Bist Bab dar Ma‘rifat-i A‘mal-i al-Asturlab (Commentary on
“Twenty Chapters Dealing with the Uses of the Astrolabe” of Nasir alDin al-Tusi, 1201-74, by Mulla ‘Abd al-‘Ali Parchadi.
Nasir al-Din al-Tusi, who built the famous observatory in Maraghah
(Azarbayjan, Iran) for the Mongol leader Hulagu (grandson of Chingis Khan),
was one of the most brilliant minds and the scholar par excellence of the
Middle Ages.
2. Hadha Lughz min al-Shaykh (This is a Riddle from the Master).
A short mathematical treatise in the form of a riddle. al-Shaykh, the “Master,”
could well be al-Shaykh Baha’ al-Din al-‘Amili (1547-1621), who is know to
have had a great interest in mathematics. Copied by Mulla ‘Abd al-‘Ali
Parchadi, whose identity could not be ascertained.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Zij Gurgani [Zij Jurjani = Gurgani Astronomical Tables]. 1193 H/1779.
An anonymous Arabic and Ottoman Turkish manuscript of astronomical
tables written for the Ottoman Sultan Abd al-Hamid I (1725-89; reigned
1774- 89).
The manuscript was completed, in the year 1193 H/1779. Written in clear,
small naskhi script, in black ink on white paper, with headings, keywords, and
markings in red. No reference can be found to this manuscript. It is probably
unique. The term “Zij-i Gurgani,” i.e., a Gurgani Zij, is derived from the word
“Gurgan,” a title used by the Mongol leader Timur (1336-1405). It was
originally invented by the Persian astronomer Ulugh Beg (1394-1449), the most
outstanding astronomer of the medieval times. His tables served as the basis
for many similar works, and were even used by John Flamstead (1646-1719),
the first Royal Astronomer at the Greenwich Observatory. Ulugh Beg’s work
held sway for close to three centuries, until it was supplanted by telescopic data.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
A Collection of Ottoman Turkish Manuscripts. Undated, but probably
the end of the 18th century.
1. Tariqat-i Bektasi [Bektashi Sufi Order]. An anonymous Twelver Shi‘i
text with Sufi leanings, containing hagiographic and historical materials in clear
nasta‘liq script, in black ink.
2. Divan-i Safi [Collected Poems of Safi ]. Safi belonged to both the
Bektashi Order and the Alawi sect of Islam. He is not mentioned in the usual
references sources, but is known to have written poetry. In his The Bektashi
Order of Dervishes, J. K. Birge refers to a poem by Safi entitled Sakiname that
is recited as part of a Bektashi ritual. Also, in his Tasavvuftan Dilimize Gecen
Deyimler ve Atazozleri, Safi Abdülbaki Gölpinarle refers to three mersiyes
(eulogies) set to music, one of them by Safi. Written in clear nasta‘liq script, in
black ink, with headings, keywords, and markings in red.
3. Poem. With Malamatiyah Sufi Order leanings.
The manuscript, which appears to have been written by different hands, is
bound in contemporary half morocco.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
al-Rawdah al-Munawwarah [The Illuminated Garden], by Shihab al-Din
Muhammad. Undated, but probably late 18th century.
Shihab al-Din Muhammad was one of the employees of Shahjahan (1592-1666),
the Mogul Emperor of India (1628-58). The manuscript, in Urdu, provides many
details regarding the building of the famous mausoleum of Taj Mahal. It is
certainly arguable that the Mogul Empire achieved its greatest prosperity under
Shahjahan. The Taj Mahal was built in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz
Mahal. It took twenty-two laborious years and the combined effort of over twenty
thousand workmen and master craftsmen to build the Taj Mahal (completed in
1648) on the banks on the river Yamuna in Agra, the capital of the Mogul
monarchs. The manuscript provides information regarding the materials used to
build the Taj and their cost, as well as other architectural details. Written in clear
nasta‘liq script in black ink on white paper, with headings, keywords, and
markings in red ink. Bound in contemporary morocco, tooled in gilt. There are
two stamps of the crest of William H. Morley of Middle Temple, one in the
beginning, one at the end. In Urdu.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Illuminated Talismanic Scroll. Undated, but probably 19th century.
This long scroll of thick paper (171 x 7.5 inches) begins with the Basmalah,
followed by Surat al-Fatihah (The Opening Chapter [of the Koran]), all
written in gold, silver, and other colors, in different styles of writing. This is
followed by 29 of “al-Asma’ al-Husna” (The Most Beautiful Names of God),
written in horizontal fashion, each name in gold on a circular black
background. These circles are surrounded by tiny script, known as ghubari, in
the form of a dome. This tiny script begins with Surat al-Fatihah, followed by
the Throne Verse (Koran, chapter 2, verse 255), then by various prayers,
quotations from the Koran, and other often repeated Islamic phrases. All these
verses and invocations are meant to have magical powers to protect the owner
of the scroll. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Arabic Manuscripts with Interlinear Javanese Translation in Arabic
Script. Undated, but probably 18th century.
Arkan al-Islam [The Pillars of Islam]. The pillars of Islam are five:
Confession of the Faith, Prayer, Fasting (during the month of Ramadan),
Making the pilgrimage to Mecca, and Giving alms to the poor.
Fima Yajibu Ta‘allumuhu wa-Ta‘limuhu wa-al-‘Amal bi-hi lil-Khass waal-‘Amm [What One Must Learn and One Must Teach and Follow
Privately and Publicly]
The Arabic parts of the manuscript are written in different hands in black ink
in naskhi script, 7 and 8 lines to a page respectively. The entire manuscript is
written on the unusual Indonesian paper called Daluang, which is
manufactured from the bark of a certain native tree, called saeh. No reference
could be found for the two titles; these are likely unique copies.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Kitab al-‘Uyun al-Sawahir fi Rawdat al-Zawahir [The Book of the
Vigilant Eyes in the Flower Garden] by Masud ibn al-Sayyid al- Hijazi
Masud. 1 Muharram 1293 H / 28 Jan. 1876.
A collection of prose and poetry covering over fifty subjects, collected from
different sources and countries and written in clear naskhi/ruq‘ah script in
brown ink. No reference could be found to the author or his work. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Qur’an [Koran]. Undated, but probably copied in the 18th century.
Chapters from the Koran in beautiful, large Chinese Arabic script, in black ink
on white glossy paper. The text is vocalized throughout with Koranic recitation
markings in red. All chapter headings are written in red ink. The opening two
pages are illuminated in gold, blue, green, red, and other colors. The last page is
also illuminated and the text is ruled in two red lines. This undated manuscript
was probably copied in the eighteenth century. Bound in contemporary
morocco, wallet style with a flap, in the Islamic manner. Covers embossed with
central medallions; borders, with a floral design. Chinese manuscripts of the
Koran are extremely rare.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Talisman. 1267 H / 1850.
This elaborate talisman is written in clear naskhi script in black ink on white
paper with keywords in red, by the calligrapher Muhammad Rasim, a student of
Muhammad Dhakir, known as Hafi z al-Qur’an (Memorizer of the Koran). The
following sentences, written in red and repeated ten times, are interspersed in
the text: “Our enemies will not reach us through spirit or other means. They
have no power to inflict harm on us under any circumstances.” The opening
page has a handsome heading in gold, blue, and other colors, and there are
marginal medallions in gold, blue, and other colors. The contemporary blue
wrapper is hand decorated in gilt. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Futuh Afriqiya [The Conquests of Africa]. Book I, by Muhammad ibn
Umar al-Waqidi (747-823). 1 Shaban 1083 H / 21 Nov. 1672.
One of the earliest works on the Islamic conquests in Africa, written in clear
maghribi script in brown ink on yellowish paper, with headings, keywords, and
markings in red. It appears that the first ten leaves were lost and replaced in a
different hand. The present manuscript is significantly different from the
printed version. It was copied by Ahmad ibn Ibrahim of Bani Salih, who
completed it on 1 Sh‘ban 1083 H/21 November 1672. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Qur’an [Koran]. Undated, but probably copied in the 18th century.
A large copy of the Koran (27 x 41 cm.), 15 lines per page, written in clear,
large, and handsome naskhi script in black ink on beige paper. The text is
vocalized throughout. Six pages (two at the beginning, two in the middle, two
at the end) are highly illuminated in gold, brown, green, yellow, and other
colors. All headings of the Suras (Chapters) are written in red ink, and the
verses are separated by disks in gold and red. Divisions of the Qur’an are all
marked by large gold discs or by gold, red, and blue medallions in the margins.
The pages are ruled in one red line and three black lines.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Astronomical Calendar. 1259 H/1843-1844.
An elaborate astronomical calendar for the year 1259 H/1843- 1844 in
Ottoman Turkish and Arabic, consisting of one long scroll (108 cm. long and
10.8 cm. wide). The text on one side is written in the form of tables in red,
black, and gold. On the other side are the names of the days and months, times
of prayer, times of fasting and breaking the fast during the month of Ramadan,
calculations of the Qiblah (direction towards the Holy city of Mecca), and
personal reading of one’s fortune. al-Sayyid al-Hajj ‘Abd Allah at-Tarsusi,
whose identity could not be ascertained, wrote the manuscript and may be its
author.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Firman [Sultan’s Order]. 25 Jumada al-Ula 1314 H/1 Nov. 1896.
This Firman, written in Ottoman Turkish (i.e. Turkish in Arabic script), was
issued by the Ottoman Sultan Abd al-Hamid II (reigned 1876-1909) on the
25th of Jumada al-Ula 1314 H (1 Nov. 1896) to appoint a certain Sufi Shaykh
as an imam (prayer leader) to a mosque in Istanbul. The document bears the
Tughra (Sultan’s Signature) in gold. The single leaf (55.5 x 81 cm.) consists of 6
lines written in alternating black and red ink in diwani script.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Kimya’ al-Sa‘adah [The Alchemy of Happiness], by al-Ghazzali, Abu
Hamid Muhammad ibn Muhammad (1058-1111). Undated, but probably
end of the 17th century.
al-Ghazzali is one of the most important philosophers and mystics in Islam.
This manuscript is a translation from Arabic into Ottoman Turkish of one of
his most important Sufi works. It is written in clear and elegant nasta‘liq script
in black ink on white glossy paper, with headings, keywords, and markings in
red. The opening page contains a handsome illuminated ‘unwan (title)in gold,
blue, and other colors. There are numerous marginal notes in neat hands.
Recent full crushed morocco binding, with elaborate tooling. In Ottoman
Turkish.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Kitab-i Shahidi [The Book of Shahidi], by al-Mawlawi al-Mughli.
Undated, but probably 18th century.
A collection of poems in Ottoman Turkish (i.e. Turkish in Arabic script). The
manuscript is written in clear and elegant naskhi script in black ink on white
paper, with headings, keywords, and markings in red. The poems are framed in
gold, the pages ruled in red line. A floral design in gold and color has been
added on folio 2a and a miniature of an Indian smoking a water pipe. A
handmade silver plate on the front cover depicts two cranes among shrubs,
with the title of the manuscript in Kufi c script at the top. The author could be
the Turkish Sufi poet Shahidi Ibrahim Dede (1470- 1550), who was born in
Mugla (Turkey). Most likely a unique manuscript.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Hayat al-Qiddis Mar Afram al-Suryani [The Life of Saint Ephrem the
Syrian] (303-373), an anonymous text translated from Syriac into Arabic
by Butrus Rizq al-Andari (a student at Madrasat Dayr Mar Yuhanna
Marun [Kafr Hayy, Lebanon] (The School of the Monastery of Mar
Yuhanna Marun). 17 Jan. 1895.
Written in clear ruq‘ah script, in purplish ink, this manuscript was completed at
the monastery on 17 January 1895. Christian manuscripts of this nature, even
though late, are quite rare. There is no information about the original Syriac
text from which the Arabic translation was made.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Talkhis Miftah al-‘Ulum [Summary of the Key to the Sciences], by Jalal
al-Din Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman al-Qazwini, Khatib Dimashq
(1267 or 8-1338). 1252 H/1836.
A summary of part III of Miftah al-‘Ulum [Key to the Sciences] of Abu Ya‘qub
Yusuf ibn Abi Bakr al-Sakkaki (1160-1229), considered one of the most
important works on Arabic rhetoric. It is written in clear and somewhat large
nasta‘liq script in black ink, on beige paper, with headings, keywords, and
markings in red. The opening page contains an illuminated heading in gold and
colors. The text is ruled in ocher, black, and red up to folio 32, afterward in red
only. It was copied during the year 1252 H (1836). Beautifully bound in half
morocco and marbled boards. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Two Manuscripts, Arabic and Persian. Undated, but probably 18th
century.
1. al-‘Awamil al-Mi’ah [The One Hundred Regents], by Abd al-Qahir ibn
Abd al-Rahman al-Jurjani (d. 1078?), translated into Persian verse.
A grammatical work on Arabic syntax.
2. Sharh al-‘Awamil al-Mi’ah [Commentary on the One Hundred
Regents], by Abd al-Qahir ibn Abd al-Rahman al-Jurjani (d. 1078?).
This commentary on al-Jurjani’s work is in Arabic with numerous interlinear
glosses and translations into Persian. The Arabic text is written in naskhi script
and the Persian text in nasta‘liq script in black ink, with headings, keywords,
and markings in red, on white, glazed paper.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Two Persian Manuscripts. Undated, but probably 18th century.
1. Mizan [Scale].
A grammatical treatise in Persian on Arabic verb formation (folios 1b-14b).
There are numerous glosses and commentaries in Persian.
2. Masha‘ib [Derived Forms].
An elaborate treatise in Persian on the derivation of various patterns from the
same root of Arabic words with numerous commentaries and glosses. The
Persian text is written in nasta‘liq script in black ink on white, glazed paper,
with headings, keywords, and markings in red.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Kitab Iqlidis [The Book of Euclid]. 1 Jumada al-Akhirah 1071 H/1 Feb.
1661.
Euclid’s “Elements” (of Geometry) was translated into Arabic probably during
the 9th century. Many editions and commentaries in Arabic were produced
during the succeeding centuries. The manuscript is written in clear and elegant
naskhi/ruq‘ah script in black ink on white paper, with headings, keywords, and
markings in red. There are numerous geometrical figures, all in gold. Bound in
contemporary marbled boards, with a leather spine.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Ijazah [License, Authorization, Certificate, Permission], given by Abu
Muhammad al-Dhihni ‘Uthman Nuri al-Hanafi al-Miyawardi to his
student ‘Umar Lutfi ibn al-Hajj Muhammad Hilmi known as Munla
Isma‘ilzadah al Arkhawi. 4 Jumada al-Akhirah 1312 H / 3 Dec. 1894.
Each teacher enumerates his own teachers and what he studied with them.
Both manuscripts are written in clear nasta‘liq script in black ink on yellowish
paper, the later manuscript with keywords in red ink. Sentences are separated
by gold disks and the pages are ruled in gold and colored ink. The opening page
of the later manuscript has a handsome heading in gold, red, and blue. Folio
12a contains some rubrics in gold. The manuscript fits loosely within a
contemporary cloth binding. The opening page of the earlier manuscript has a
handsome heading in gold, red, and blue. The opening two pages are
surrounded with a vignette arabesque design in gilt. Folio 10a contains some
rubrics in gold. Contemporary board binding with leather spine. The teachers’
seals appear at the very end of the certificates. In Arabic.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Ijazah [License, Authorization, Certificate, Permission], given by ‘Ali
Rida ibn Yunus al-Janaki al-Fatsawi al-Fazmawi to his student al-Hajj
‘Abd al-Qadir al-Bazarjifi. 5 Dhu al-Qi‘dah 1321 H / 23 Jan. 1904.
The teacher then goes on to numerate his teachers and what he studied with
them. The manuscript is written in clear nasta‘liq script in black ink with
keywords in red ink, on yellowish paper. The opening page has a handsome
heading in gold, red and blue. All sentences are separated by gold discs. All
pages are ruled in gold, blue, and black. Folio 12a contains some rubrics in
gold. The manuscripts has contemporary cloth binding and is loose within the
binding. The cover slightly affected by dampness and silverfish, otherwise in
excellent condition.
The teacher's seal appears at the very end of the certificate.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
A Collection of 12 Arabic Manuscripts. Undated, probably copied in the
late 19th century.
1. A short prayer.
2. An important work on jurisprudence. Mukhtasar wiqayat al-riwayah fi masa’il
al hidayah by Sadr al-Shari‘ah-Thani, ‘Ubayd Allah ibn Mas‘ud ibn Mahmud
ibn Ahmad (d. 747 H/1346) (Summary of Protecting the Transmission [of
Hadith {sayings and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad}] Regarding the
Questions of Guidance).
The original work, Wiqayat al-Riwayah (Protection of the Transmission),
is by Mahmud ibn Sadr al-Shari‘ah al-Awwal, ‘Ubayd Allah al-Mahbubi (d. 673
H/1274), the grandfather of the present author. Copied in 1292 H/1875.
3. Fara’id al-Fawa’id li-Tahqiq Ma‘ani al-Isti‘arah wa-Aqsamiha by Abu al
Qasim ibn Abi Bakr al-Laythi al-Samarqandi (d. ca. 888 H/1563) (The
Necklace of Benefits to Ascertain the Meaning of Metaphor and its
Categories).
4. Sharh Ma‘ani al-Isti‘arah (Commentary on Ma‘ani al-Isti‘arah (The
Meanings of Metaphor) by al-Isfara’ini, ‘Isam ad-Din Ibrahim ibn
Muhammad ibn ‘Arabshah, known as al-‘Isam (d. ca. 951 H/1544).
5. Tarikat al-Mayyit (The Estate of the Diseased), anonymous.
6.–9. Untitled, anonymous treatises on the division of inheritance; on the burden of
proof for a claimant; on the structure of the Arabic language; and on case-endings in
the Arabic language.
10. al-Risalah al-Shamsiyah fi al-Qawa’id al-Mantiqiyah (The Shamsi Epistle
on the Rules of Logic) / by Najm al-Din ‘Ali ibn ‘Umar ibn ‘Ali al-Qazwini alKatibi (600–75 H/1204–77). Called The Shamsi Epistle because it was specifically
written for Shams al-Din ibn Muhammad. The author, al-Katibi, was a prominent
student of the famous Islamic philosopher, Nasir ad-Din al-Tusi (d. 672 AH/1274).
11. Untitled, anonymous commentary on a grammatical treatise.
12. al-Risalah al-Jami‘ah li-Khamasat Ashya, anonymous.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
A Collection of 13 Arabic Manuscripts. Undated, but probably copied in
the late 18th century.
1. Kitab al-Dumu‘ [The Book of Tears]. Dated 1181 H/1767, by Ibn al Jawzi, Abu alFaraj ‘Abd al Rahman ibn ‘Ali (d. 597 H./ 1200) Also known as “Bahr al-Dumu‘ [The
Sea of Tears].
2. Kitab fi al-Ayyam wa-al-Layali wa-al-Shuhur [A Book about Days, Nights, and
Months], by Ibn al Jawzi, Abu al Faraj ‘Abd al Rahman ibn ‘Ali (d. 597 H./ 1200). Also
known as “Kitab al-Nur fi Fadail al-Ayyam wa-al- Shuhur [The Book of Light Regarding
the Virtues of Days, and Months].
3. Kitab Adab al-Akl [Book of Etiquette of Eating], by Ibn al-Jawzi, Abu al Faraj
‘Abd al Rahman ibn ‘Ali (d. 597 H./ 1200). An unrecorded work, probably a unique
manuscript.
4. Kitab Adab al-Nikah [Book of the Etiquette of Sexual Intercourse], by Ibn alJawzi, Abu al Faraj ‘Abd al Rahman ibn ‘Ali (d. 597 H./ 1200). The manuscript was
copied by Muhammad ibn ‘Ali al-Hassani in the year 1181 H/1767. An unrecorded
work, most likely a unique manuscript.
5. Tanwir al-Ghabash fi Fada’il al-Sudan wa-al-Habash [Clearing the Darkness
Regarding the Virtues of Blacks and Abyssinians], by Ibn al-Jawzi, Abu al Faraj
‘Abd al Rahman ibn ‘Ali (d. 597 H. / 1200). Copied by Muhammad ibn ‘Ali al-Hassani
and completed during Dhu al-Hijjah 1181 H/ April 1768.
6. A chapter from an anonymous book, probably by Ibn al-Jawzi, beginning Bab al‘Aql Hujjat Allah ‘ala Khalqih [Chapter Concerning the Mind as Proof for the Creatures
about the Existence of God].
7. Quotations from al-Hasan ibn Mas‘ud al-Yusi (d. 1102 H/1691) regarding the
prayer for Prophet Muhammad.
8. An answer given by al-Hasan Ibn Mas‘ud al-Yusi comparing reading the
Qur’an with other prayers. Copied by Muhammad ibn ‘Ali al-Hassani.
9. A quotation from Abu Bakr al-Mutawwa‘i, about prophets and saints.
10. A Prayer.
11. A short poem dealing with when one does not have to return a greeting.
12. Excerpts from Tuhfat al-Albab fi ‘Aja’ib al-Buldan [Gift to the Intellects
Regarding the Wonders of Countries]. An unrecorded work.
13. Excerpts from Hayat al-Hayawan [Life of Animals], by Muhammad ibn Musa alDamiri (d. 808 H/1405).
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
A Collection of Illuminated Arabic Manuscripts. Undated, but probably
copied in the late 18th century.
1. Names of God written within gold squares.
2. The name of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. A prayer for seeking God’s forgiveness.
4. An explanation of the noble seal of God.
5. The seal itself, written in large thuluth script.
6. The word “Allah” written within a crescent moon surrounded by a decorative
rectangle in gold and blue.
7. The word Muhammad, written in similar fashion.
8. The hilyas (attributes) of Adam, within a circle surrounded by a decorative
rectangle in gold and blue.
9. The hilyas (attributes) of Noah, Muhammad, Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman, ‘Ali,
Hasan, Husayn.
10. The names of: Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman, ‘Ali, Talhah, Zubayr, ‘Abd Allah, ‘Abd
al-Rahman, ibn ‘Awf, Sa‘d, Sa‘id, Abu ‘Ubaydah, Hasan, Husayn (famous
companions of the Prophet Muhammad) within decorative circles as before.
11. The Seven Sleepers and their dog (Qutmir). Koran: Surat al-Kahf Chapter 18.
12. A prayer written in the form of cypress.
13. Different muhrs (Seals): Ya hannan, Ya mannan (Oh, merciful, Oh generous); wahwa ‘ala kull shay’ qadir (And He is able to do anything); unity of God; shifa’ alQur’an (Koranic medicine); seals for a prayer of getting well and for the great prayer
of getting well; the seal of the Prophet; the seal of Sulayman (Solomon); explanation
of the seal of the Sixth Shi‘i Imam, Imam Ja‘far [al-Sadiq] (died 148 H/765); the
Almighty Seal, all within decorative circles.
14. Drawings: The Hand of Fatimah, Dhu al-Fiqar (‘Ali’s sword); foot of the Prophet
Muhammad; the Prophet’s shoes; tawkaltu ‘ala Allah (I rely upon God); the staff of
Moses; an Ax; a rose; the banner of gratitude; the cloak of the Prophet Muhammad,
his rosary, his ewer, and his basin, all drawn in gold.
15. Decorative sketches of Mecca and Medina, in gold and other colors.
16. A prayer for attaining al-Maqam al-Mahmud (The Glorious Station [in heaven]).
17. Various Islamic flags, all drawn in gold.
18. Various prayers for variety of occasions.
19. Various talismanic numerological squares. Bound in contemporary brown
morocco, in the Islamic, wallet-style, both covers richly gilt, with central medallion
on both sides.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
Dala’il al-Khayrat wa-Shawariq al-Anwar fi Dhikr al-Salah ‘ala al- Nabi
al-Mukhtar [Guide to Blessings and Shining Lights Regarding Prayers
on the Chosen Prophet), by Abu ‘Abd Allah Muhammad ibn Sulayman
al-Jazuli (d. 1465). 1208 H / 1793.
An illuminated Arabic manuscript of one of the most famous books of prayer
in Islamic literature, with two full-page miniatures, one representing the Ka‘bah
in Mecca, the other the tombs of the Prophet Muhammad and his two
companions, Abu Bakr and ‘Umar, in the Medina Mosque. Written in a clear
and elegant naskhi script on beige paper, in black ink, with key words and
markings in red. The Arabic text is completely vocalized. The pages are ruled in
several lines of different colors (gold, black, red, and blue), and the sentences
are separated with rosettes in two types of gold and other colors. The opening
two pages are highly illuminated in gold, blue, brown, and other colors. Head
and tailpieces on several folios are illuminated in gold, blue, red, and other
colors. The names of the Prophet Muhammad are written in an intricate design
of medallions in two types of gold and other colors. There are a few marginal
notes in a tiny but legible script. The text was copied by the calligrapher
Mustafa al-Halimi, a student of Mustafa Kutahi. No reference could be found
to Mustafa al-Halimi, but Mustafa Kutahi (d. 1202 H/1787 AD) is well known.
Bound in contemporary brown morocco, with gilt decoration in central
medallions, in two types of gold.
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Dala’il al-Khayrat wa-Shawariq al-Anwar fi Dhikr al-Salah ‘ala al-Nabi
al-Mukhtar [Guide to Blessings and Shining Lights Regarding Prayers
on the Chosen Prophet), by Abu ‘Abd Allah Muhammad ibn Sulayman
al-Jazuli (d. 1465). Undated, but most likely copied in the 18th century.
One of the most famous books of prayer in Islamic literature. This Arabic
manuscript illuminated in gold, blue, red, and other colors is written in clear
and elegant naskhi script, in black ink, on beige paper, 13 lines to a page. The
Arabic text is completely vocalized. All pages are ruled in two blue lines, and
the sentences are separated with rosettes in gold, or red, or blue and black. The
opening two pages are highly illuminated in gold, blue, brown, and other
colors. Head and tail pieces on several folios are illuminated in gold, blue, red,
and other colors. There are decorations in similar colors on several other folios.
Some of the names of the Prophet Muhammad are written in gold circles and
all are separated by small or large rosettes in blue and gold. Pages 16b and 17a
contain full page miniatures, one of them representing the Ka‘bah in Mecca,
the other the tombs of the Prophet Muhammad and his two companions, the
Caliphs ‘Umar and Abu Bakr in the Medina Mosque. Bound in contemporary
crushed brown morocco, with a flap in the traditional Islamic wallet-style
binding, both covers and flap are tooled in gold.
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Yusuf va Zulaykha [Joseph and Zulaykha], by Nur al-Din ‘Abd alRahman Jami (1414-1492). 1246 H/1830
One of the most widely read Islamic masnavi epic poems, this Islamic romance
in Persian is based on the story of Joseph and Pharaoh’s wife “Zulaykha”
(Zalikhah) as it is mentioned in the Koran. Scholars consider this version to be
the best among the many poems of the same title. It is written on white, glossy
paper in two columns, in clear nasta‘liq script. The text is ruled in several lines
of gold, orange, black, and blue, the lines separated by gold fi lings, with
headings in red. The first miniature shows the mythical creature “al-Buraq,” on
whose back the Prophet Muhammad ascended through the seven heavens and
on to Paradise, from whence he descended to the “Rock” in Jerusalem during
the famous “Night Journey” (al-isra’ wa-al-mi‘raj) mentioned in the
beginning of Chapter 17 of the Koran. Other miniatures show Joseph with his
father Jacob and his brothers, Joseph in the well, the rescuing of Joseph from
the well, Zulaykha’s infatuation with Joseph, the ladies cutting their fingers on
seeing Joseph’s beauty, etc. It was written in 1246 H/1830. The outer covers of
the contemporary lacquer binding are painted with a large paisley leaf, within
floral decorations in brown, yellow, and other colors. On the inside, the covers
are painted with red flowers, on a yellow background with floral borders. The
manuscript is in the style of the Kashmiri school of art.
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Iskandar Namah [The Book of Alexander] by Nizami Ganjavi, Nizam
al-Din Abu Muhammad Ilyas ibn Yusuf (1140 or 41-1202 o4 3). Dhu alHijjah 1249 H/April 1834.
The manuscript contains two distinct parts: Sharaf Namah-i Iskandari (The
Alexander Book of Honor) and Iqbal Namah (The Book of Happiness). The
Book of Alexander belongs to the famous Khamsah-I Nizami (The Five
[Stories] of Nizami). It is written in clear and handsome nasta‘liq script, on
beige glazed paper, in two columns. The columns of poetry are ruled in gold.
The text is ruled throughout with several bands of gold, blue, and red lines. On
the margin of the manuscript, there is another anonymous poem running the
length of the manuscript. The marginal poem is also ruled throughout with
several bands of gold, blue, and red lines. There is one illuminated heading and
ten competently executed miniatures. Probably from the Kashmiri school of
painting. The erotic miniature usually included in the repertoire of this story,
and often found damaged, is in perfect condition here. Bound in contemporary
morocco, embossed in gilt. The present manuscript dates from the early
Safavid period, during the reign of the Savavid ruler of Iran, Shah Tahmasp, the
father of Shah ‘Abbas the Great. This is considered the most glorious period of
Persian cultural history and the source of the greatest works of painting,
calligraphy, and architecture. The manuscript is a fine example of Safavid
calligraphy. In Persian.
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Khamsah-i Nizami [Nizami’s Quintet (Five Stories)], by Nizami
Ganjavi, Nizam al-Din Abu Muhammad Ilyas ibn Yusuf (1140 or 41-1202
o4 3). 9 Ramadan 970 H/2 May 1563.
The five epic poems in this illuminated Persian manuscript are:
1. Makhzan al-Asrar [Treasure Chamber of Mysteries]
2. Khusru va Shirin [Khusro and Shirin]
3. Layla va Majnun [Layla and Majnun]
4. Haft Paykar [Seven Portraits (Faces, Images, Idols, etc.)]
5. Iskandar Namah [The Story of Alexander] (in two distinct parts:
Sharafnamah-i Iskandari “Alexander Book of Honor” and Iqbal Namah
“The Book of Happiness”)
The manuscript is written in clear and handsome nasta‘liq script, on white
glazed paper. The text is written in four columns and all the columns of poetry
are ruled in gold. There are six illuminated headings in gold and colors and nine
competently executed miniatures. There are also hundreds of subheadings
illuminated in gold and colors. Eighteenth-century lacquer binding, re-backed
in morocco, which is embossed in arabesque design in gilt on both sides of
each cover. Nizami (1140-1202) is widely considered one of the greatest poets
of Persia and his most important work is the Khamsah (Quintet), a collection
of five epic poems, written between 1165 and 1189. Nizami’s importance in
Persian literature is due to his supreme skill and influence as well as his role in
presenting the archaic style of the epic poem in a lyrical form that emphasized
the psychological characterization over the heroic character. The present
manuscript dates from the early Safavid period and is a fine example of Safavid
calligraphy, handsomely illustrated with nine miniatures. In Persian.
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Three Persian Manuscripts. Ramadan 1016 H/Dec. 1607.
1. Ma‘rifat-i Taqvim [Knowing the Calendar]. An anonymous text on
astrology.
2. Fal Namah [Treatise on Fortune Telling], attributed to ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib
with astrological tables.
3. [On the Branches of the Occult], by Nasir ibn Muhammad ibn Haydar
Rammal Shirazi. The author’s identity is not known; he could have been a
Persian from Shiraz who practiced geomancy [using sand (raml) for divination].
He claims to have summarized his work according to the system developed by
Abu ‘Abd Allah Muhammad ibn ‘Uthman al-Zanati who could be al-Shaykh
Muhammad al-Falaki al-Zanati author of “al-Fasl fi usul ‘ilm al-Raml” (The
Last Word on the Foundations of the Science of Geomancy).
All three manuscripts are written in a uniform hand except for two leaves that
appear to be replacements of lost leaves. In clear naskhi script, in black ink,
with headings, keywords, and markings in red, on white paper. A great deal of
care was taken to restore these manuscripts. Each leaf was taken apart and
remounted on a new frame. Then the manuscript was rebound.
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Sharh Tahrir Tanqih al-Lubab [Commentary on the Edition of the
Revision of the Essence], by Abu Yahya Zakariya ibn Muhammad alAnsari (1423-ca. 1520). 26 Safar 1152 H/3 June 1739.
“al-Lubab fi al-Fiqh” [The Essence of Jurisprudence] by Ahmad ibn
Muhammad ibn al-Mahamili (d. 1024) was later summarized by Ahmad ibn
‘Abd al-Rahim ibn al-‘Iraqi (1361-1423) under the title “Tanqih al-Lubab”
[Revision of the Essence]. This was abbreviated by al-Ansari as “Tahrir
Tanqih al-Lubab” [Edition of the Revision of the Essence]. The present
manuscript (most likely unique) is al-Ansari’s commentary on his own
abbreviation of the book. The manuscript is written in clear naskhi script on
white glossy paper, the original text in red, the commentary in black ink. There
are numerous marginal notes in different hands. There are several marginal
circular stamps, which read: “This book belongs to al-Sayyid ‘Abd al-Baqi alBakri, 304.” The number undoubtedly refers to the year 1304 H (1886). There
are also several marginal rectangular stamps, which read: “Oh Lord! You are
Allah. Make it easy for us to know the meaning of ‘There is no god but Allah.’
This book is dedicated to the Almighty God by al-Sayyid ‘Abd al- Baqi al-Bakri
al-Siddiq Sibt al-Husayn.” Original tan morocco binding, with a flap in the
Islamic tradition of bookbinding, where all fascicles are loose within the
binding. In Arabic.
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A Collection of Thirteen Arabic and Persian Manuscripts. 1710?
This voluminous manuscript of 126 folios contains 12 Arabic and Persian
manuscripts by different authors on various subjects.
1. Qisas al-Anbiya [Stories of the Prophets] by Sa‘id ibn Hibat Allah al-Rawandi (d.
1178). In Persian.
2. ‘Iqd-i Nikah [Marriage Contract] by Muhammad ‘Ali Astarabadi. In Persian.
3. [Short Quotations from Various Religious Sources]. In Arabic and Persian.
4. [Medical Recipes], attributed to Jafar al-Sadiq (702?-65 or 6), the 6th Shi‘i Imam. In
Persian.
5. Taqwim al-Muhsinin fi Ma‘rifat al-Sa‘at wa-al-Ayyam wa-al-Shuhur wa-al-Sinin
[Calendar of the Benefactors in Knowing the Hours, the Days, the Months and the
Years] by Muhammad ibn Murtada al-Kashani al-Akhbari (d. 1703 or 4); an astrological
work culled from the works of the Shi‘i Imams. In Arabic.
6. Risalah fi Tahrim Dhaba’ih Ahl al-Kitab [An Epistle on the Prohibition of Animals
Slaughtered by the People of the Book] by Baha’ al-Din Muhammad ibn Husayn al‘Amili (1547-1621). In Arabic.
7. Quotations from various sources, mainly Shi‘i sources: a. Death of ‘Umar ibn alKhattab (d. 23 H/644), b. What did Prophet Muhammad do when he had a cold. c. A
grammatical explanation of qatt (never). d. A question about the little animal called wazagh
(gecko). e. Question regarding why the very cold wind in the winter is called ‘ajuz (old
woman). f. A grammatical explanation of halumma (hurry!).
8. Al-Risalah al-I‘tiqadiyah [Epistle of Belief] by Muhammad Baqir, who is undoubtedly
Muhammad Baqir ibn Muhammad Taqi al-Majlsi (1627 or 8-ca. 1699).
9. Risalah fi al-Taqlid [Epistle on Following (an Imam)] by Husayn ibn ‘Abd as-Samad
al-Jubba’i (918-84 H/1512-76).
10. Tuhfat al-Za’ir [Gift to the Visitor] by Muhammad Baqir ibn Muhammad Taqi alMajlsi (1627 or 8-ca. 1699). In Arabic with Persian translation. The manuscript is dated 17
Jumda al-Awwal 1122 H/15 July 1710.
11. Quotations in Persian and Arabic, all of Shi‘i content.
12. Arba‘in Surah min al-Tawrah [Forty Chapters from the Torah].
13. Various quotations, all of Shi‘i content. In Arabic and Persian. The Arabic text is written
in naskhi script and the Persian text in nasta‘liq script throughout.
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A Collection of Twelve Arabic, Persian, and Ottoman Turkish
Manuscripts. Undated, but probably 17th-19th centuries.
A voluminous collection containing mostly prayers, talismanic, mystical, and
medico-magical texts.
1. Chapters from the Koran.
2. A Persian manuscript with Shi‘i content.
3. Du‘a’ Rasul Allah al-Ma‘ruf bi-Alf ism wa-ism Allah ta‘ala, wa-huwa
al-Jawshan al-Kabir [Supplication of The Messenger of God
(Muhammad), which is known as ‘The One Thousand Names and the
Name of God, Which is the ‘Great Shield (i.e. Talisman)’].
4. Sharh Du‘a’ al-Marjanah [Explanation of the Prayer of al-Marjanah
(the Coral)]. In Ottoman Turkish.
5. Hadha Du‘a’ al-Ghasilah [This Is a Prayer of the Washer Woman].
The prayer, meant to implant love in the heart of the desired person, contains a
few magic squares. In Arabic.
6. A prayer in Ottoman Turkish.
7. Awwal Du‘a’ Sharif [The First Noble Prayer]. In Arabic.
8. A prayer in Ottoman Turkish.
9. A prayer in Arabic against measles.
10. A prayer in Ottoman Turkish.
11. A short Turkish treatise entitled Khawass al-Qur’an [The Properties
of the Koran].
12. Hadha Hirz al-Tabi‘ah [This Is the Talisman of the Female
Follower]. An elaborate Talisman, beginning with a description of the cursed
woman and ending with a sketch of her. The talisman is meant to protect the
person who carries it from the wrath of this cursed woman.
The manuscript is written in different hands in naskhi script in black ink on
yellowish paper, with headings, keywords, and markings in red. Bound in recent
tooled, gilt, green morocco.
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Kitab thabit fi Ahkam al-Buyu‘ [Authoritative Book on the Laws of
Sales]. Anonymous.
Undated, but most likely was written in the early part of the 18th century. In
thick and somewhat large nasta‘liq script in black ink with headings, keywords
and markinks in red ink on yellowish paper. 97 folios. It appears that the last
leaf is missing. Recent imitation leather, numerous worm holes, causing the loss
of many letters and few words, some foxing and damp staining, but the text is
quite legible.
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Takmilat Tafsir al-Qur’an al-Karim [Supplement to the Commentary on
the Glorious Koran]. Anonymous
Supplement to Tafsir al-Qur’an al-Karim [Commentary on the Glorious Koran]
by Jalal al-Din Muhammad ibn Ahmad ibn Irahim al-Mahalli (1389-1459). The
entire manuscript is written on the unusual Indonesian paper, called Daluang
which is manufactured from the bark of a certain native tree called saeh. 115
folios in clear naskhi script, in black ink with the text of the Koran in red. The
first few pages before the text contain prayers in Arabic in different hands.
Undated, probably 18th century.
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Mukhtasar Kitab Ghunyat al-Mutamalli [Abbreviation of the Book on
the Requirements of the Discerner], by Burhan al-Din Ibrahim ibn
Muhammad al-Halabi (d. 1549 or 50)
The book is a major Hanafi jurisprudence work. It is an abbreviation of
“Munyat al-Musalli wa-Ghunyat al-Mubtadi” [Desire of the Prayer
(worshiper) and Satisfaction of the Beginner] of Sadid al-Din al-Kashghari
(13th cent.) (a tract on the law governing ablution and prayer). It was copied by
a certain scribe, Mustafa Big ibn al-Hajj Mustafa al-Kanqarawi al-Jalabadi (?) in
1164 H/1751 in the District of Shaykh Uthman in Istanbul. 173 folios, in clear
naskhi script in black ink with headings, keywords and markings in red on white
glossy paper. Copied 1164 H/1751.
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Ikmal al-Din wa-Itmam al-Ni‘mah fi Ithbat al-Ghaybah wa-Kashf alHayrah [Completion of Religion and Fulfillment of Favor regarding the
Certainty of the Disappearance, hence, Removing the Perplexity], by Ibn
Babawayh al-Qummi, Muhammad ibn Ali ibn al-Husayn (918 or 19-991 or 2)
The author of this book, sometimes referred to as “Kitab al-Ghaybah” (The
Book of Disappearance), was the most learned Shi‘i thinker of his day and
one of a handful of the most important Shi‘i writers in history. The book is an
extensive treatise to prove that prophets and imams do disappear and reappear.
271 folios in small naskhi script, in black ink with headings, keywords and
markings in red on yellowish, glazed paper. The manuscript was completed on
20 Jumada II 1034 H/28 Feb. 1625.
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Sharh Nur al-Idah wa-Najat al-Arwah [Commentary on the Light of
Elucidation and the Salvation of Souls], by Abu al-Ikhlas Hasan ibn
‘Ammar al-Wafa’i al-Shurunbulali al-Hanafi (1585 or 6-1659)
A commentary by the author on his own work “Nur al-Idah wa-Najat alArwah” (The Light of Elucidation and the Salvation of Souls) a work on
Hanafi jurisprudence. 210 folios in clear naskhi script in black ink, with
keywords and markings in red on glossy white paper. The manuscript was
completed in the year 1263 H/1846.
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[Collection of Three Manuscripts in Arabic and Javanese] / by
Anonymous.
1. ‘Ilm wa-Ma‘rifah [Knowledge and Perception]. A philosophical treaties
in the form of question and answer, in Arabic with many glosses and marginal
notes in Javanese (folio 2b-51b)
2. Bahjat al-‘Ulum fi Sharh Bayan ‘Aqidat al-Usul [The Delight of
Knowledge in Explaining the Elucidation of the Fundamentals of Faith].
Anonymous. A commentary in Arabic with interlinear partial translation in
Javanese on Bayan ‘Aqidat al-Usul [Elucidation of the Fundamentals of
Faith] of Abu al-Layth al-Samarqandi, Nasr ibn Muhammad (d. 983?) a basic
extensive treatise on Islam (folio 52b-86a).
3. Commentary on “al-Furud al-Wajibah” (Obligatory
Religious Duties).
An anonymous. A Shafii treatise on Islamic law. The original is in Arabic,
written in red, with interlinear partial translation in Javanese written in black ink
(folio 87b-149b)
The entire manuscript (151 folios) is written on the unusual Indonesian
paper, called Daluang which is manufactured from the bark of a certain native
tree called saeh. Undated, but probably 18th century.
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Fasl-i Panjam [The Fifth Chapter]. Anonymous
A treatise on Arabic morphology (derivation) in Persian. Also titled “al-Juz’ dar
Sarf” [A Chapter on Morphology (Derivation)]. 17 folios in nasta‘liq script in
black ink with headings, keywords and markings in red on white glazed paper.
The manuscript is undated but most likely from the 18th century. Recent
imitation leather, many wormholes, mainly marginal. The leaves are
professionally repaired with no significant loss of text.
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Fatawi Shaykh Mashayikh al-Islam Abd al-Rahim Afandi [Fatwas (i.e.
Legal Opinions) of the Grand Shaykh of Islam ‘Abd al-Rahim Effendi]
The Author is most likely the Ottoman Grand Mufti Abdurrahim Efendi,
Mentesizade; Seyhulislam; b. in Bursa; d. in Edirne 1716). The manuscript is in
Ottoman Turkish. It was copied by Darwish Mustafa ibn Muhammad alMawlawi on 27 Rajab 1147 H/23 Dec. 1734. Probably a unique manuscript.
214 folios in clear elegant and handsome ruq‘ah script in thick black ink with
headings, keywords and markings in red on white glossy paper. Contemporary
brown morocco, with both covers embossed with central medallion.
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Kitab al-Ustuwani [The Book of al-Ustuwani], by Muhammad ibn
Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Shami al-Hanafi al-Ustuwani (d. 1662)
Translated from Arabic into Ottoman Turkish. The book is also known under
title: “Risalah fi al-Fiqh” (An Epistle on Jurisprudence). No other
manuscript is known of this book, neither in Arabic nor in Ottoman Turkish.
Probably a unique manuscript. 132 folios, undated but probably from the 18th
century. In clear nakhi script, in black ink with headings, keywords and
markings in red on white paper. The last leaf is repaired with some loss of text.
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