Interpretasi Reka Corak Geometri Dalam Iluminasi Dalail Al-Khairat Terengganu/ Interpretation Of Geometric Pattern Design In The Illumination Of Dalail Al-Khairat Terengganu

Illumination in Islamic manuscripts is not merely a form of visual decoration, but also serves as an important medium for conveying values and beliefs within Islamic civilization. However, most previous studies have tended to focus on the technical and aesthetic aspects, without deeply exploring the underlying meanings behind the geometric designs used. This gap highlights the need to understand how geometric forms in illumination actually communicate deeper spiritual messages and values. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the variations of geometric patterns found in the illumination of the Dalail Al-Khairat Terengganu manuscript (MSS2586), held in the collection of the National Library of Malaysia (PNM), Kuala Lumpur. This study also discusses the interpretation of the different types of geometric patterns discovered, based on the perspective of Islimi design principles. A qualitative approach was employed, using visual observation and literature review as the main methods. Two illuminated pages with prominent geometric patterns were analysed through a formalistic approach and interpreted using Charles Sanders Peirce’s semiotic theory. The findings reveal that the geometric patterns in this manuscript carry profound meanings related to religious values such as the oneness of God, the balance of nature, and harmony. This study offers significant contributions to the deeper understanding of Malay-Islamic manuscript illumination and highlights its role as a cultural heritage that unites artistic beauty with spiritual values.