Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Jan 1: In a first for New York City, mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani will take his oath of office on a centuries-old Quran, becoming the first mayor in the city’s history to do so. The inauguration ceremony will be held underground at a long-closed subway station beneath City Hall, according to reports.

The 34-year-old Democrat will place his hand on two Qurans during the oath-taking — one belonging to his grandfather and another rare pocket-sized Quran dating back to the late 18th or early 19th century. While most previous New York mayors were sworn in on a Bible, the oath to uphold the federal, state and city constitutions does not mandate the use of any religious text.

With this, Mamdani will also make history as New York City’s first Muslim mayor, the first South Asian, and the first African-born individual to hold the post, the Associated Press reported.

The historic Quran is part of the collection at the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Hiba Abid, curator for Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the library, described the manuscript as a powerful symbol of the diversity and long-standing presence of Muslims in the city.

“It’s a small Quran, but it brings together elements of faith and identity in New York City history,” Abid said.

The manuscript was reportedly acquired by renowned Black Puerto Rican historian Arturo Schomburg, whose collection highlights the global contributions of people of African descent. The Quran bears no date or signature, but scholars estimate, based on its binding and script, that it was produced during the Ottoman period, likely in a region spanning present-day Syria, Lebanon, Israel, the Palestinian territories and Jordan.

During his election campaign, Mamdani focused heavily on issues of affordability while also openly embracing his Muslim identity. He campaigned extensively across all five boroughs, building strong support among South Asian and Muslim communities.

However, the decision to take the oath on a Quran has drawn criticism from some conservative quarters. US Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama reacted on social media, writing, “The enemy is inside the gates,” in response to reports about Mamdani’s inauguration.

Following the ceremony, the historic Quran used during the oath will be placed on public display at the New York Public Library.