How was the Holy Quran preserved and transmitted with such accuracy throughout history? The answer lies in centuries of scholarly efforts dedicated to collecting, writing, reviewing, and preserving the Quran through sciences such as Ottoman script (Rasm Uthmani) and Quranic notation.

Dr. Abu Al-Yazid Ali Salama, Director General of Quran Affairs at Al-Azhar and researcher at the General Secretariat of the Council of Senior Scholars, delivered a lecture titled "History of the Mushaf, Its Script, Notation, and Production" as part of Al-Azhar’s scientific development program.

The Stages of Quran Compilation and Writing

The Beginning of Quran Documentation

The lecture reviewed the historical stages of collecting and writing the Quran, explaining that the Mushaf was written according to a specific method known as Ottoman script, which became the standard for Quran manuscripts.

This script represents an important field in Quranic studies and has been carefully preserved by scholars throughout generations.

What Is Ottoman Script (Rasm Uthmani)?

Definition and Characteristics

Ottoman script refers to the unique method used to write Quranic words. It differs from modern Arabic spelling rules.

Its main characteristics include:

• Deletion of certain letters.
• Addition of letters.
• Separation.
• Connection between words.

These features are established conventions related to Quranic writing and recitation sciences.

Development of Quranic Notation

Why Were Diacritical Marks Added?

The earliest Ottoman manuscripts were written without dots and vowel marks, which matched the Arabic writing style of that era and allowed different authentic Quranic readings.

Later, scholars introduced symbols and marks to help readers pronounce Quranic words correctly and avoid mistakes.

What Does Quranic Notation Include?

Quranic notation includes:

• Vowel marks.
• Letter dots.
• Shadda.
• Sukoon.
• Lengthening marks.
• Stopping and starting symbols.

These signs assist Muslims in accurate Quran recitation.

Differences Between Eastern and Western Quran Notation Schools

Different Methods, One Purpose

The lecture explained the differences between Eastern and Western approaches to Quran notation.

Both schools share the same goal: preserving Quranic words from errors and misreading.

However, they differ in the appearance and placement of some symbols. Eastern scholars mainly followed the system of Al-Khalil ibn Ahmad, while Western scholars followed the tradition of Imam Abu Amr Al-Dani.

Do These Differences Change the Quran?

No. These differences are technical conventions created by scholars to facilitate reading and protect correct pronunciation. They do not affect Quranic words or meanings.

Difference Between Quran Script and Quran Notation

Script Defines Writing, Notation Defines Reading Assistance

The difference is:

• Quran Script: Refers to the structure and form of Quranic words and letters.
• Quran Notation: Refers to additional marks that guide correct pronunciation.

Both sciences work together to preserve accurate Quran recitation.

Importance of Maintaining Ottoman Script

Scholars emphasized that following Ottoman script in Quran writing is essential because it represents the script used in the early manuscripts compiled during the era of the companions.

Meanwhile, notation marks were developed by scholars as a service to the Quran, making recitation easier and protecting readers from mistakes.

The Craftsmanship and Review of the Holy Quran Mushaf

Producing the Quran Mushaf requires exceptional scientific accuracy and religious responsibility.

The process is not merely artistic work; it requires strict adherence to rules of script, notation, Quranic readings, and careful review at every stage.

What is Ottoman script?

Ottoman script is the traditional method used for writing Quranic words in early Mushafs.

What is the difference between Quran script and notation?

Script refers to how words are written, while notation refers to symbols that help correct pronunciation.

Why were early Quran manuscripts written without dots?

Because Arabic readers at that time understood the script, and it supported different authentic Quranic readings.

Do differences between Eastern and Western notation change the Quran?

No, they are only differences in technical symbols and do not affect Quranic words or meanings.