American_University_in_Dubai_21

Introduction

• Discusses the historical documentation of texts during the time of the prophet.

• Key figures mentioned: Uthman and Abdomenik.

Early Documentation

• Methods of Writing:

  • Dispersal of text: Early writings were on various surfaces: sheets, palm leaves, stones, baked clay, but notably, no paper was used initially.

  • Vellum Usage: A formal writing medium made from animal skins (goats or sheep).

    • Procedure: The skins are cleaned, stretched, and dried to create a durable writing surface.

    • Limitations: Expensive and limited in quantity, as one animal produces limited writing material.

• Emergence of Paper: Around July, paper technology is introduced, revolutionizing document production, allowing mass creation of texts.

Preservation of the Quran

• Stage One:

  • Memorization: The primary method for preserving the Quran as written documentation was not systematic.

  • Scribes: Some text was written down by scribes, but still relied heavily on oral transmission.

  • Learning Method: Traditional learning through memorization from an expert.

    • Contrasted with modern methods like self-learning through apps.

• Historical Context:

  • Prior views valued oral transmission over written documentation.

  • Misconceptions about written texts being more prone to error compared to memorization.

Transition to Compilation

• Stage Two:

  • Uthman's Role: Uthman commissioned the standardization of the Quran during his caliphate (around 650 CE).

  • Objectives: To centralize and preserve the Quranic text accurately across the provinces.

  • Mus'haf Creation: A single, standardized version of the Quran was produced, known as the Mus'haf.

    • Description: Large volumes meant for central use rather than personal carry.

• Kufic Script: The earliest Arabic script post-Islam, notable characteristics discussed.

  • Diacritics Issue: Early texts lacked dots and markings, complicating reading and comprehension.

Intended Use of the Mus'haf

• The Mus'haf was to be used in conjunction with memorization. Readers were expected to learn from teachers, using the text as a reference, not independently.

Distribution of the Mus'haf

• Copies were distributed to various provinces:

  • Locations: Kufa, Basra, Damascus, Mecca, Medina, and Fustat (Cairo).

Conclusion

• The structure Uthman established continues to inform Quranic texts today, with subsequent refinements ensuring accurate transmission and learning.