Human history is a rich tapestry, woven together with stories and knowledge. Throughout the ages, books have been our trusted companions, preserving thoughts, tales, and wisdom. Let’s journey back in time and discover five of the oldest books that still grace our world today.
1. Madrid Codex: A Glimpse of the Mayan World Estimated Age: 494 Years Old
The Madrid Codex, also revered as the Tro-Cortesianus Codex, is a beacon of the pre-Columbian Maya era, with roots reaching back to 900-1521 AD. Found in Spain during the 1860s, this ancient gem is now showcased in the Museo de América, Madrid. Written in the intricate Yucatecan, this codex paints a vivid picture of Mayan life and customs.
2. Gutenberg Bible: A Printing Revolution Estimated Age: 559 Years Old
Johannes Gutenberg’s magnum opus, the Gutenberg Bible, emerged as the first mechanically printed book around 1454-1455 AD in Mainz, Germany. Even though China had dabbled in early printing with works like the Diamond Sūtra, this Bible heralded a pivotal shift in Western print technology. Today, only 21 complete originals remain, with one residing in the New York Public Library.
3. Celtic Psalter: Scotland’s Ancient Chronicle Estimated Age: 938 Years Old
Often likened to the illustrious Book of Kells, the Celtic Psalter is a compact anthology of Psalms from the 11th century AD. Recognized as Scotland’s eldest book, it made its public debut at the University of Edinburgh in 2009, captivating many with its artistry and historical resonance.
4. Diamond Sūtra: The Oldest Dated Print Estimated Age: 1,145 Years Old
Emerging from a secluded cave in China, the Diamond Sūtra is a revered Buddhist scripture that boasts the distinction of being the oldest dated printed book, hailing from May 868 AD. Unique to this relic is an inscription, narrating its crafting by Wong Jei in honor of his parents.
5. Siddur: Ancient Jewish Prayers Echo Estimated Age: 1,173 Years Old
In 2013, history enthusiasts rejoiced as an age-old Jewish prayer book, or ‘siddur’, surfaced, tracing its lineage back to 840 AD. This precious parchment, still bound in its original form, echoes Babylonian linguistic nuances and offers a window into the spiritual fabric of the Middle Ages.
In Closing From the mystic Mayan civilization to the spiritual essence of the Middle Ages, these ancient books offer a bridge to our past, reminding us of humanity’s timeless quest for knowledge.
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