Studying the Value of Inscriptions in Historical Islamic Monuments of Afghanistan (Ghaznavids, Ghorids and Timurids)

Abstract

This article is part of research that studies the value of inscriptions in Islamic architecture of Afghanistan. It is a rich treasure trove of Islamic values ​​from Islamic art and civilization that reached its peak in the three historical periods of Ghaznavids, Ghorids and Timurids. However, the problem with the research is that these inscriptions have been studied mostly sporadically and solely from the perspective of reading the text, and the lack of a comprehensive and interdisciplinary study of their value indicated the need for a study. Explaining the functional and value changes and transformations of the inscriptions was one of the main goals of the research, so that by rereading them, we can achieve a more accurate understanding of the art, culture and history of Afghanistan. The findings of this research showed that inscriptions underwent remarkable changes in these three periods and are considered the peak of the flourishing of Islamic inscriptions in Afghan architecture, and they have played three functions in building identity at the religious, cultural-artistic and political levels. This research was conducted with a qualitative approach and using library studies, field observations and interviews with experts. However, the current state of the inscriptions seems very worrying, and detailed interviews with experts revealed a deep gap between the universal value of these inscriptions and the public ignorance and inattention of the responsible institutions.