Jilid

Jilid refers to a traditional method of organizing and binding written materials, commonly used in Islamic and Middle Eastern cultures. The term originates from the Arabic word "جِلْد" (jild), meaning "skin" or "cover," and historically describes the leather-bound volumes that contained handwritten manuscripts. In this system, texts such as the Quran, hadith collections, or scholarly works were divided into manageable sections called *juz’* (singular: *juz’*), with each juz’ typically comprising a portion of a larger work. These sections were then compiled into bound volumes, often with leather covers, to facilitate handling and preservation.

The practice of dividing texts into jilid became particularly prominent during the Ottoman Empire, where it influenced the structure of religious and literary works. For example, the Quran is commonly divided into 30 juz’ for daily recitation, and these sections are often grouped into jilid for easier reference. This method also extended to other genres, including historical chronicles, legal treatises, and poetry collections. The jilid format allowed scholars and students to study and transport texts more conveniently, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge across regions.

While the physical leather-bound jilid has largely been replaced by printed books and digital formats, the concept of dividing texts into structured volumes remains influential. Modern editions of Islamic texts, such as the Quran or hadith compilations, often retain this organizational framework, reflecting its enduring legacy in preserving and accessing written heritage. The jilid tradition also highlights the intersection of practicality and cultural preservation in the transmission of knowledge.