Young Afghan Handwrites Complete Quran with Pashto Translation

A young resident of Hairatan port town in Balkh province, Hamed Aminyar, has chosen a different path to pursue his aspirations alongside his daily work.

Over the course of two years, Aminyar has handwritten a complete copy of the Holy Quran, carefully and artistically, together with a Pashto translation.

The translation used in the manuscript is the work of the renowned Afghan scholar the late Qiamuddin Kashaf, a trusted translation that has held a special place among Pashto speakers for many years.

Calligrapher Hamed Aminyar said: “This translation is very fluent and is taken from the work of Mawlawi Kashaf. After research, we also consulted a religious scholar, as there are many Quran translations in Persian. For readers and for those who wish to memorize the Quran while following its translation, this version is very suitable.”

Aminyar has called on authorities to expand Quranic programs and to provide support and opportunities for creative young people.

He added: “There should be support for Quranic programs and gatherings. Efforts like this should be encouraged so that other young people who have a positive outlook toward the Quran, or who have other creative ideas, are motivated and given the facilities to use their talents.”

Aminyar’s friend and colleague praised his dedication, saying he would work during the day and continue the calligraphy of the Quran manuscript late into the night.

His friend, Wali Khan Dawlatzai, said: “When the Holy Quran is handwritten and decorated with traditional miniature colors of our country, it requires a great deal of effort. He faced many challenges, worked during the day, and spent nights, sometimes until 2 a.m., on this project, enduring many hardships.”

Officials from the Balkh Directorate of Information and Culture say they plan to strengthen Quranic programs and have pledged support for such creative initiatives.

Shafiullah Haidari, Director General of Information and Culture in Hairatan port town, said: “During the month of Ramadan, we organize Quranic exhibitions. We can display these efforts and creative works so that other young people and officials can see them firsthand and be encouraged to support further activities.”

It is worth noting that Aminyar has previously handwritten two other copies of the Holy Quran.

According to him, the work was carried out not as part of his job, but out of love, passion, and deep religious belief.