Makkah: Since the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud has prioritized the Holy Quran, integrating it as the core of education and a guiding principle for life. He has shown unwavering support for Quran memorization circles and has honored those who memorize the Holy Quran, exemplifying the Saudi state's enduring commitment to serving Islam and safeguarding the Holy Quran.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the idea of printing the first Saudi-produced Quran in Makkah arose following the presentation of a handwritten copy of the Holy Quran by Sheikh Mohammed Taher Al-Kurdi. Al-Kurdi is recognized as one of the most esteemed Quran calligraphers of the modern era. A specialized government committee was subsequently formed to review the Quran, comprising several eminent scholars of Quranic recitations in Makkah.
Comprehensive reviews were conducted under the supervision of the General Presidency for Scholarly Research, Ifta, Call and Guidance at the time. This was to ensure the accuracy and adherence to the established principles of Quranic script and orthography. Upon completion of the manuscript, it was presented to King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who was Deputy to the King in Hijaz. He expressed strong interest in the project and instructed the commencement of printing.
The first edition was released in 1369 AH, corresponding to 1950, and was presented to King Abdulaziz. Additional copies were distributed to his sons and several scholars. The Quran's cover featured the inscription: 'Makkah Quran, written by Mohammed Taher Al-Kurdi, calligraphy instructor at the General Directorate of Education in Makkah, printed at the expense of Makkah Quran Company during the reign of King Abdulaziz.'
This Quran marked a notable historical milestone as the first Saudi printing of the Holy Quran, distributed to pilgrims for many years. It stands as a testament to the Kingdom's early efforts in serving, printing, and disseminating the Holy Quran prior to the establishment of the King Fahd Glorious Quran Printing Complex, which later expanded this mission on a global scale.
Today, the 'King Abdulaziz Quran' endures as an important national and historical landmark, symbolizing the Kingdom's dedication to the Holy Quran. It serves as a lasting model in the history of serving the Holy Quran, illustrating the ongoing commitment from past to present and into the future as the Kingdom continues its mission of serving Islam and Muslims.