Classical and Contemporary Islamic Studies

Classical and Contemporary Islamic Studies

Critical Analysis of Orientalists’ Role in Reviving Quranic Manuscripts and Advancing Codicological Studies

Document Type : Scholary

Author
Hossein Sepehrifard
Department of Quranic Sciences, Faculty of Quran and Hadith, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran
10.22059/jcis.2026.396174.1428
Abstract
Quranic manuscripts, as a vital component of the cultural and religious heritage of the Islamic world, hold a distinguished position in Quranic studies. However, many of these manuscripts have faced the risk of destruction over time due to wars, natural disasters, and neglect. In this context, Orientalists have played a significant role in the discovery, preservation, and study of these manuscripts. Nevertheless, their activities have been subject to ongoing debate and scrutiny. On the one hand, their efforts in preserving and reviving Quranic manuscripts are commendable; on the other hand, their approaches to the Quran as a historical and cultural text have occasionally conflicted with Islamic perspectives. This article aims to critically analyze the role of Orientalists in the revival of Quranic manuscripts and their impact on codicological studies, employing a descriptive-analytical method and utilizing library and archival resources. The findings indicate that Orientalists have significantly contributed to the preservation of Quranic heritage through the discovery of key manuscripts, such as the Sana’a manuscripts, and the implementation of major digitization projects. By employing advanced scientific methods, such as radiocarbon dating and multispectral imaging, they have advanced innovative approaches in Quranic codicology. Projects like Corpus Coranicum and the Berlin Quran Project exemplify these achievements, providing global access to Quranic manuscripts. However, their activities have faced challenges. Some Orientalists have approached the Quran with Western presuppositions, which may conflict with Islamic perspectives. For instance, historicist and linguistic approaches have occasionally led to claims of textual alteration or distortion in the Quran, which have been heavily criticized by Islamic scholars. Additionally, ethical concerns regarding access to Quranic manuscripts, such as collecting manuscripts without the consent of their rightful owners, have posed further challenges. This article critically examines these activities, exploring both their achievements and challenges, and offers recommendations for future research. These include comparative analyses of the methodologies of Orientalists and Islamic scholars, evaluations of the impact of Orientalist activities on contemporary Quranic studies in the Islamic world, and investigations into ethical issues surrounding access to Quranic manuscripts. Such research could enhance understanding of the role of Orientalists in Quranic studies and foster intercultural dialogue.
Keywords
Orientalists
Quranic manuscripts
Codicology
Orientalism
Quranic studies
Islamic heritage
Subjects
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Classical and Contemporary Islamic Studies
Volume 9, Issue 1
Winter & Spring
January 2027
Pages 159-170