08.01.2026 01:27
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that the Quran he swore on when taking office is a manuscript from the Ottoman period. The 18th-century Quran has begun to be exhibited at the New York Public Library.
New York's first Muslim Mayor Zohran Mamdani revealed the secret of the 18th-century historical Quran he swore on during his inauguration ceremony. The manuscript, written in Ottoman Syria, will now be exhibited at the New York Public Library.
New York's new Mayor Zohran Mamdani officially began his duties at a ceremony held at the historic Old City Hall Metro Station. The most talked-about detail of the ceremony was the Quran that Mamdani swore on. Mamdani shared the story of this Quran, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire, with the public.
18TH CENTURY OTTOMAN HERITAGE
According to Mamdani's statement, the Quran used during the oath ceremony was prepared as a manuscript in 18th-century Ottoman Syria. This rare work, part of Arturo Schomburg's collection, is meticulously written in black ink, with certain sections of the text highlighted in red ink. The work represents a significant cultural heritage in terms of both art and history.
"THIS QURAN BELONGS TO ALL NEW YORKERS"
In a statement on his social media account, New York Mayor Mamdani emphasized that this historical copy is not only a symbol of faith but also a part of the city's shared heritage. Mamdani stated, "This Quran, which symbolizes the new era of New York, belongs to all New Yorkers," highlighting the inclusive power of the work.
STARTED TO BE EXHIBITED AT THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
After the ceremony, this historical manuscript Quran was transferred to the main building of the New York Public Library (NYPL) for preservation and public access. Officials announced that the work is now open for visitation. New Yorkers will have the opportunity to closely see this Ottoman heritage on which the city's mayor swore.