A Sacred Text, A Historic Moment
Mayor Mamdani's Oath: A New Chapter for NYC
At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, Zohran Mamdani officially began his term as the Mayor of New York City. His oath of office, taken with the Qur'an, symbolized a landmark moment for the city's diverse population. This choice of text highlights a profound respect for his cultural and religious heritage, making him the first Muslim to hold this prestigious position in the city's history.
Two Qur'ans, Two Legacies: Personal and Public Heritage
The swearing-in ceremony featured two distinct copies of the Qur'an. One held deep personal value, belonging to Mayor Mamdani's grandfather, representing a link to his family's past. The second, equally significant, was a loan from the esteemed Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, part of the New York Public Library. This particular volume was carefully chosen by Mamdani's wife, Rama Duwaji, and Rahim Duwaji, with expert assistance from Hiba Abid, the NYPL's curator of Middle Eastern and Islamic studies.
The Schomburg Qur'an: A Symbol of Accessibility and History
Dating back to the late 18th or early 19th century and believed to have originated in Ottoman Syria, the Schomburg's Qur'an is noteworthy for its modest design and practical size. Rendered in red and black ink, it was created for daily use, embodying the very essence of accessibility – a core principle of Mayor Mamdani's successful campaign. Hiba Abid emphasized the book's profound meaning, stating, "Its significance transcends its visual appeal. Its true importance lies not in its grandeur, but in its availability to all."
Arturo Alfonso Schomburg's Enduring Collection and Public Display
This historical Qur'an was once part of the extensive collection of Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a prominent Afro-Puerto Rican scholar, writer, and bibliophile. Over his lifetime (1874–1938), Schomburg amassed an impressive array of over 4,000 books, manuscripts, and various artifacts focusing on Black art, culture, and religion, which he later sold to the New York Public Library. The public will have its first opportunity to view this significant Qur'an on January 6, when it will be showcased at the NYPL’s main branch as part of the Schomburg Center’s centenary celebrations.