Ruhnama
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Ruhnama (or The Book of the Soul from Persian: روح ruh (soul) and نامه nāma (book), sometimes spelled Rukhnama) is the combination autobiography, historical account, and spiritual guidebook written by Turkmenistan's President for Life, Saparmyrat Niyazov (aka "Turkmenbashi"). The text is composed of many stories and poems, including those by Sufist poet Magtymguly Pyragy.
Niyazov issued the first part of the work in 2001, saying, "Ruhnama was issued to eliminate all shortcomings, to raise the spirit of the Turkmen." The second part, which covers morals, philosophy, and life conduct, was issued in 2004. The book is required to be prominently displayed in Turkmen bookstores and government offices, and it is also required to be displayed next to the Qur'an in Turkmen mosques. The work is a required part of the curriculum in schools and universities. Passing an examination in the teachings of the book is also required to get a driver's license in Turkmenistan. Public criticism of the text is forbidden by law.
External links
- Ruhnama - Official website (http://www.ruhnama.com)
- Rukhnama - On line version (http://www.rukhnama.com)lt:Ruhnama