Intermediate
Quranic Sciences
Surah: Yusuf (2)
Translation of the Quran — Ruling and Accepted Methodologies
إِنَّآ أَنزَلۡنَٰهُ قُرۡءَٰنًا عَرَبِيّٗا لَّعَلَّكُمۡ تَعۡقِلُونَ
— يوسف الآية 2
Definition:
Translation of the Quran means conveying its meanings into another language — there are two types: literal and interpretive.
Types of Translation:
Translation of the Quran means conveying its meanings into another language — there are two types: literal and interpretive.
Types of Translation:
- Literal (Lafziyya): Replacing each Arabic word with an equivalent — prohibited, as it distorts meaning and undermines the Quran's inimitability.
- Interpretive (Tafsiriyya / Meaning-based): Conveying meanings and objectives in the style of the target language — permissible with conditions.
- Must not be called "Quran" or recited in prayer as a substitute.
- The original Arabic text must accompany it.
- Must be explicitly labeled "Translation of the Meanings of the Quran," not the Quran itself.
- Must be produced by a scholar specialized in Quranic sciences and tafsir.
Source: Al-Zarqani, Manahil al-Irfan (2/3); Al-Suyuti, Al-Itqan (2/375); Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research (4/175)
Test Yourself
What is the difference between literal and interpretive translation of the Quran, and what is the ruling on each?
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