Iraqi calligrapher Ali Zaman has completed what is being described as the world’s largest handwritten Quran, marking a rare and remarkable achievement in Islamic art and devotion. The project took six years of continuous effort and has drawn admiration from scholars, artists, and faith communities across the Muslim world.
The handwritten Quran stands out for its sheer scale and traditional craftsmanship. Each page measures nearly three metres when fully opened, making it one of the largest handwritten religious manuscripts ever created. Ali Zaman wrote every verse by hand using traditional reed pens and black ink. He carefully followed the classical thuluth script, known for its elegance, balance, and precision.
Throughout the project, Ali Zaman avoided all modern tools. He used no digital assistance, printing methods, or mechanical aids. This strict commitment to tradition preserved the authenticity of the work and reflected the discipline required in classical Islamic calligraphy.
Ali Zaman dedicated himself fully to the manuscript, often spending long hours focused on accuracy and form. Writing the Quran by hand requires extreme concentration, as even minor errors demand correction without compromising the structure of the page. The scale of the pages added further complexity, making the task physically and mentally demanding.
Faith driven journey and cultural significance
The journey to complete the manuscript was not without hardship. In 2023, Ali Zaman faced serious health issues that forced him to pause his work for a period. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to finish the project. He later resumed writing with renewed focus and commitment.
Ali Zaman personally funded the entire project. He relied on his own resources throughout the six year process, covering material costs and daily expenses without external sponsorship. This personal investment further underscored his dedication to the work.
Now based in Istanbul, Ali Zaman has described the manuscript as an act of worship rather than a pursuit of recognition. He has stated that the project reflects gratitude, patience, and spiritual devotion. According to him, writing the Quran by hand strengthened his connection with the text and deepened his sense of faith.
Islamic scholars and calligraphy experts have praised the manuscript as a rare example of devotion to Islamic heritage. Many have highlighted the importance of preserving traditional calligraphy at a time when digital reproduction dominates religious publishing.
Also read Basant Celebrations Drive Rs 18 Crore Business on Second Day
The handwritten Quran serves as a powerful symbol of perseverance and belief. It also draws attention to Islamic calligraphy as a sacred art form that connects generations through discipline and beauty. For centuries, calligraphers have played a central role in preserving the Quran, and Ali Zaman’s work continues that legacy on an extraordinary scale.
As admiration for the manuscript continues to grow, the project stands as a reminder of the enduring relationship between faith and art. Ali Zaman’s achievement not only honors the Holy Quran but also reinforces the cultural value of patience, craftsmanship, and spiritual dedication in the modern age.
