Some books, by virtue of their content, are elevated to a position of
special cultural significance. For jews and christians, the bible is considered divinely
inspired. For muslims, the qur'an records the word of god as communicated directly to
muhammad. Most religions preserve sacred scriptures in book or scroll format. These may be
sumptuously decorated, using precious materials such as gold leaf, gems, and luxurious
leathers and papers. Often such texts are housed in splendid containers, which themselves
take on ritual significance. |