Türkiye institution holds special event for historical Ramadan manuscripts

ISTANBUL, Türkiye (MNTV) – Türkiye has inaugurated a special exhibition and conference titled “Ramadan and Ramazaniyyahs” at the Süleymaniye Manuscripts Library in Istanbul. 

The event, managed by Türkiye Manuscripts Institution (TYEKB), highlighted the historical and literary significance of Ramadan, featured rare manuscripts and scholarly discussions, drawing attention to the rich cultural and intellectual heritage associated with the holy month.  

TYEKB president Coşkun Yılmaz, speaking at the conference, emphasized the institution’s pivotal role as a guardian of Islamic and Turkish-Islamic intellectual heritage. 

“TYEK preserves the collective memory of our civilization across diverse fields, from religious sciences to astronomy, physics, geography, and botany,” Yılmaz stated. 

He underscored the institution’s commitment to safeguarding this knowledge and transmitting it to future generations.  

Professor Nihat Öztoprak of Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University delivered a keynote speech titled “Ramazaniyyahs in Turkish Literature.” 

He shared insights from his research on poetic works dedicated to Ramadan, noting how poets have historically integrated themes of joy, spirituality, and devotion into their writings. 

“For centuries, Ramadan has been reflected in poetry and literature, with poets composing odes and literary pieces to capture the essence of this sacred month,” Öztoprak explained.  

During his presentation, Öztoprak highlighted how Ramadan was woven into various poetic genres, with some poets producing multiple “Ramazaniyyahs.” 

However, he noted that the exact number of these works remains undetermined, despite their historical prevalence.  

Following the conference, attendees explored the “Ramadan and Ramazaniyyahs” exhibition, which showcased rare manuscripts centered on fasting, Ramadan, and poetic traditions associated with the holy month. 

Among the notable works on display was a Quran manuscript penned by renowned calligrapher Yakut al-Musta’simi, alongside 19 other historic pieces from TYEK’s collections.  

A key highlight of the exhibition was the display of the Prophet Muhammad’s “Sakal-ı Şerif” (Sacred Beard), which was brought to the exhibition area and honored with prayers. 

The exhibition also featured Ramadan-themed hymns, poetic compositions, and texts on Islamic jurisprudence discussing the virtues of fasting. 

Additionally, visitors had the opportunity to view 15 valuable notebooks compiled by scholar Süheyl Ünver, detailing Ramadan traditions, as well as sacred artifacts from the Prophet’s tomb (Ravza-i Sharif).  

The “Ramadan and Ramazaniyyahs” exhibition will remain open to visitors until the end of Ramadan, offering a unique glimpse into the literary and historical richness of the holy month. 

The event underscores TYEKB’s ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate the cultural and spiritual heritage of Ramadan, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.