Encyclopedia of the Afghan Jihad
The Encyclopedia of the Afghan Jihad (Arabic: Mawsuat al-Jihad al-Afghani) is a comprehensive, multivolume reference work written in Arabic. Primarily focused on the technical description of diverse weaponry, this extensive collection serves as a detailed manual for military hardware and tactics.
Publication and Scope
First published in Pakistan between late 1992 and early 1993, the work is notable for its sheer scale. The original full-length version consists of more than 8,000 pages organized across 11 volumes. Due to its massive size, an abridged version was later produced, condensing the material to approximately 1,000 pages.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Original Title: Mawsuat al-Jihad al-Afghani.
- Language: Arabic.
- Origin: Published in Pakistan (circa 1992-1993).
- Volume: 11 volumes totaling over 8,000 pages.
- Subject Matter: Descriptions of various weapons.
Distribution and Discovery
While originally a printed reference, electronic versions of the full-length encyclopedia have been recovered by authorities from various militant groups globally. These discoveries highlight the work's circulation among extremist networks during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Notable instances of recovery include a version found with Muslim militants in Belgium during the 1990s. Additionally, copies were seized from Abu Hamza al-Masri, the cleric who managed the Finsbury Park Mosque in London, and from the headquarters of Osama bin Laden located in Kandahar.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Pages (Full) | 8,000+ |
| Total Pages (Abridged) | ~1,000 |
| Number of Volumes | 11 |
| Publication Location | Pakistan |
| Primary Language | Arabic |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary subject of the Encyclopedia of the Afghan Jihad?
The encyclopedia is a reference work that describes a wide variety of weapons in the Arabic language.
Where was the work originally published?
It was first published in Pakistan in either late 1992 or early 1993.
How large is the original version of the encyclopedia?
The original version is divided into 11 volumes and contains more than 8,000 pages.
Is there a shorter version of the text available?
Yes, an abridged version exists which reduces the content to approximately 1,000 pages.
Who was found in possession of this encyclopedia?
Copies or electronic versions were found with militants in Belgium, Abu Hamza al-Masri in London, and at Osama bin Laden's headquarters in Kandahar.