Istanbul: In an extraordinary artistic and spiritual achievement, a former Iraqi goldsmith living in Türkiye has completed what is being hailed as the world’s largest handwritten copy of the Holy Quran, a magnificent manuscript that took six years of dedication, precision, and faith to complete.

The creator, Ali Zaman, originally from Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, began his journey as a goldsmith but left the trade in 2013 to fully devote himself to Islamic calligraphy, a passion he had nurtured since childhood. In 2017, he and his family moved to Istanbul, Türkiye, so that he could focus entirely on this monumental project — a handwritten Quran unlike any ever produced.

According to Turkish media, the finished Quran is 4 meters long and 1.5 meters wide, making it the largest handwritten manuscript of its kind in the world. Zaman crafted it entirely by hand, using a traditional reed pen (qalam) and natural inks, without the aid of any modern machinery or digital tools. Every letter, stroke, and diacritical mark was drawn meticulously, showcasing the mastery of classical calligraphic technique.

A Six-Year Journey of Faith and Perseverance

The project was entirely self-funded, a testament to Zaman’s personal devotion rather than commercial ambition. Working for several hours each day in a modest room at Mahrem Sultan Mosque in Istanbul, he gradually brought his vision to life.

Despite facing health challenges in 2023 that temporarily paused his progress, Zaman’s determination never wavered. After six years of continuous effort, he completed what he calls a “labor of faith and love.”

Speaking to Turkish media, Zaman said, “Creating something like this is a blessing very few people experience in their lifetime. Every word of the Quran carries divine meaning, and writing it by hand allows one to connect spiritually with the sacred text in an indescribable way.”

Artistic Brilliance and Technical Grandeur

The Quran’s extraordinary dimensions — 4 meters in length and 1.5 meters in width — surpass the previous world record of a handwritten Quran measuring 2.28 meters by 1.55 meters. Each page of the new manuscript represents a delicate balance of artistry, geometry, and devotion.

Zaman used hand-prepared parchment and custom-made ink to ensure that the colors and textures would remain vibrant for generations. The script style follows the classical Ottoman calligraphic tradition, known for its elegance and precision. He also avoided the use of rulers or stencils, relying entirely on his eye and steady hand — a remarkable feat considering the scale and consistency of the text.

Recognition and International Acclaim

Ali Zaman is no stranger to recognition. Over the years, he has received multiple international awards for his work in Islamic calligraphy from countries such as Syria, Malaysia, Iraq, and Türkiye.

In 2017, he was honored by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the International Hilye-i Şerif Competition in Türkiye, where he received the “Distinction Award” for his exceptional calligraphic skill.

Scholars and art critics have praised his latest creation not only for its scale but also for its devotional authenticity and artistic integrity. “This Quran represents both the beauty of faith and the enduring spirit of Islamic art,” said one Turkish art historian. “It connects centuries of calligraphic tradition with modern craftsmanship.”

A Legacy of Faith and Culture

Zaman has stated that his family intends to keep the Quran in Türkiye as a cultural and spiritual treasure. Plans are underway to display the manuscript in a dedicated exhibition space or museum, where it can inspire future generations and serve as a symbol of Islamic devotion and creativity.

“The Quran is not just a religious book; it is a living art form that has inspired centuries of Muslim civilization,” Zaman explained. “My hope is that this work will remind people of the beauty and discipline of traditional calligraphy — and the spiritual peace that comes with it.”

Symbolism Beyond Art

Experts note that the timing and location of this accomplishment are deeply symbolic. Türkiye, historically home to the Ottoman calligraphic tradition, has long been a global center for Islamic arts. By completing the world’s largest handwritten Quran in Istanbul, Zaman has effectively revived and honored this legacy.

His achievement also stands as a quiet response to an increasingly digital age. At a time when most texts are printed or displayed on screens, Zaman’s painstakingly handwritten Quran is a celebration of patience, craftsmanship, and spiritual connection — values often overshadowed in modern life.

Future Aspirations

Following the completion of this monumental project, Zaman hopes to publish a documentary and a book chronicling his six-year journey, detailing the materials, techniques, and emotional experiences behind the process. Several universities and art institutions in Türkiye and the Middle East have already expressed interest in showcasing his work as part of Islamic art exhibitions.

As word of his accomplishment spreads, messages of admiration and congratulations have poured in from around the Muslim world. Scholars have described the manuscript as a “spiritual masterpiece” that not only embodies artistic genius but also reflects the deep reverence Muslims hold for the divine word.