Knowledge of Linguistic Intricacies of Quran, A Must for Translators

www.ahl-ul-bayt.org, www.iqna.ir/en/

Knowledge of Linguistic Intricacies of Quran, A Must for Translators

-- A translator of the Holy Quran needs to understand the linguistic intricacies of the Quran’s language so that he can convey the message as accurately as possible.

Renowned Iranian poet and story writer Mostafa Rahmandust who has translated the Quran for children and teenagers added that some translators fail to accurately understand the meaning of the verses because they lack mastery of the Arabic language. “This is the first reason behind an unsuccessful translation.”

He said that it is important to note who the translation is addressing. “Is it addressed to scholars or is it for school students? Each has its own requirement. But there is a general principle: the translator needs to understand the linguistic intricacies of the Quran’s language so that he can convey the message as accurately as possible.”

According to Mr. Rahmandust, if someone plans to embark on translating the Quran, he or she should first read all the previous renderings in the target language. “One should not limit themselves to their own knowledge and expertise but should benefit from the experiences and knowledge of those who have previously translated the Holy Book.”

Referring to the problems a translator may face, he said the first problem is finding the right equivalent for the Arabic word because there are some words with slightly different meanings in the Quran for which there is only one equivalent in Persian, for example.

“The second problem I had, since I translated the Quran for children and teenagers, was that I was translating for an age group with limited vocabulary. That is why I had more difficulty finding proper equivalents.”

Asked about group translation of the Quran, he said it is good idea if the group comprises experts in different fields and a final editor who ensures coherence in the translation.

He was also asked about versified translation of the Holy Book. “No versified translation of the Quran has been successful because versification undermines meaning. So I am against verified rendering of the Holy Scripture.”

Concluding his remarks, Mr. Rahmandust said the Holy Quran is multi-faceted and has different dimensions. It is an ocean full of gems and jewels for everyone who contemplates its verses and each translator can take out only some of the gems and jewels.