Cambridge University Library is showcasing "exceptionally rare" Islamic manuscripts from Asia and North Africa, many on display for the first time. Highlights include a 730-year-old Persian Quranic commentary, the oldest known Malay Quranic commentaries from Aceh, Indonesia, and a 15th-century Hebrew Bible commentary. The manuscripts, collected by Dutch scholar Thomas van Erpe (Erpenius), cover over 15 languages, including Arabic, Persian, Hebrew, and Classical Chinese. Curator Dr. Majid Daneshgar praised Erpenius for promoting the study of global languages and fostering a more inclusive approach to religious and textual scholarship.
Top 5 Most Significant Exhibits
Cambridge University Library has unveiled an extraordinary collection of rare Islamic manuscripts, some of which have never been displayed publicly before. Here are the top 5 most significant exhibits:
1. Rawḍat al-ṣaffāʾ (Garden of Purity)
Dating back to the 16th century, this Ottoman Empire manuscript is one of the oldest and most valuable in the collection.
2. 730-Year-Old Persian Commentary on the Quran
This ancient manuscript provides a unique insight into the early days of Islamic scholarship.
3. Oldest Known Malay Quranic Commentaries from Aceh, Indonesia
This rare manuscript showcases the spread of Islamic knowledge in Southeast Asia.
4. 15th Century Hebrew Commentary on the Bible
This exhibit highlights the interfaith connections between Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
5. 700-Year-Old Copy of the Gospels in Arabic
This manuscript offers a glimpse into the practices of early Christian communities in Alexandria.
Other Notable Exhibits
- Royal copy of an Arabic book of language (1274)
- Manuscripts in over 15 languages and scripts, including Arabic, Aramaic, Classical Chinese, Hebrew, Javanese, Malay, Persian, Syriac, Telugu, Turkish, and Yiddish
The Story Behind the Collection
Thomas van Erpe, a Dutch scholar and printer, collected these manuscripts and donated them to Cambridge University Library in 1632. Erpenius aimed to promote the study of Islamic and Asian manuscripts alongside Latin, Greek, Syriac, and Hebrew.
Expert Insights
"Ancient manuscripts are time machines, they take us back to other worlds." - Dr. Chris Burgess, Head of Public Programmes
"Erpenius paved the way for an inclusive approach to religious and textual studies." - Dr. Majid Daneshgar, Curator
Exhibition Details
- Location: Cambridge University Library
- Duration: Ongoing
- Highlights: Rare Islamic manuscripts, oldest known Malay Quranic commentaries, 700-year-old copy of the Gospels in Arabic
Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Islamic manuscripts. Visit Cambridge University Library today!