During a recent expedition to the Kyzylorda region, scientists from the National Center of Manuscripts and Rare Books uncovered valuable manuscripts and rare books dating back to the 18th-20th centuries. Among the findings were manuscripts on Sharia law from the late 18th century and Ahmed Yassawi's "Divani Hikmet" books published in Kazan in 1904 and 1912.
The discoveries also included a Quran and its Turkic commentary, "Jami al-Rumuz" from Egypt in 1909-1910, "Baday al-Sanai fi Tayrab al-Sharai" ("Wonderful Arts in the Order of the Path"), the sixth volume of "Sharh Kanz al-Dakaik" from 1898, a collection titled "Kanz al-Dakaik" (Treasure of Precision), Sufi wisdom by Allayar published in Tashkent, and books on Sufism. All these works have been transferred to the National Center's collection.
Specialists also added the lithographically printed "Khaftiak Sharif" from Kazan and a book on fiqh, "Giyas al-Luga" (dictionary), to their collection. These unique works were found stored in chests and attics of local residents, in need of restoration. Currently, documents are undergoing disinfection and insect treatment in the restoration-conservation laboratory before the restoration process and copying can begin.
The head of the research department at the National Center, Kamshat Parimbekova, shared plans for the restoration and reproduction of the discovered works. The delegation also visited state libraries, museums, and archival institutions, continuing their search for and research on the national heritage held by private individuals.
This recent discovery adds to the growing collection of historical and cultural artifacts found in Kazakhstan, shedding light on the rich literary and intellectual heritage of the region.
