Translations
List of Quranic Translations
The translations of the Quran span many languages and centuries, reflecting the text’s significance across cultures and the diverse ways in which its teachings have been interpreted. Below is a detailed list of translations categorized by language and time period, highlighting the contributions of various scholars and translators who have dedicated their efforts to make the Quran accessible to different linguistic communities.
This extensive list highlights just a fraction of the numerous translations available today, showcasing profound scholarly efforts and the diverse cultural contexts in which the Quran is studied.
The list below is historical and does not indicate the best or most genuine ones.
Historical Translations (7th–21th Century)
7th Century
Persian: Al-Fatiha translated by Salman the Persian, a significant figure in early Islamic history, whose insights helped shape the understanding of the Quran in Persian-speaking regions.
8th Century Berber: An incomplete translation from the 8th century, showcasing the early Muslim presence in North Africa.
9th Century
Greek: The first complete translation used by Nicetas Byzantius, which reflects the early interactions between Islamic and Byzantine cultures.
9th Century Sindhi: An incomplete translation commissioned in 884, which contributed to the understanding of Islamic teachings in the Sindh region.
10th Century
Persian: Tafsir-Tabari, a complete translation with tafsir, which offered extensive commentary and interpretation, influencing future generations of Persian scholars.
11th Century
-Persian: Qur’an Quds, translator unknown, demonstrates the ongoing effort to provide Persian speakers with access to the Holy text.
-Persian: Kashf al-Israr wa ‘Eddat al-Abrar by a student of Abu Mansur Abdullah al-Ansari, this work delves deep into the meanings of the verses.
12th Century
-Latin: Lex Mahumet pseudoprophete (1143) by Robert of Ketton and Hermann of Carinthia, a crucial work that bridged cultural gaps between the Islamic and Christian worlds.
-Persian: Tafsir Nasafi, complete translation with tafsir, recognized for its depth and comprehensiveness.
13th Century
Latin: Improved Latin translation by Mark of Toledo (1193–1216), reflecting a growing interest in Islamic texts among European scholars.
16th Century
Latin: Translations by Juan Gabriel of Teruel and Leo Africanus (1518–1525) that contributed to the spread of Islamic knowledge in the Western world.
17th Century
-Malay: Tafsir Tarjuman al-Mustafid by Shaikh Abdur Ra’uf al-Fansuri, representing a significant moment in the spread of Islam in Southeast Asia.
-German: Alcoranus Mahometicus from Italian by Salomon Schweigger (1616), which marked the beginning of serious scholarship in German-speaking countries.
-The Alcoran of Mahomet (1649) by Alexander Ross – This is one of the earliest translations into English, derived from a French version, paving the way for future English translations.
18th Century
-Russian: Various translations including “Алкоран о Магомете” (1716) and others in the late 1700s, revealing the growing interest in Islamic texts among Russian intellectuals.
-George Sale – The Koran (1734), which inspired many subsequent translations and interpretations.
19th Century
Urdu: Muzihul-al-Quran by Shah Abdul Qadir Dehlvi (1828), a noteworthy effort to make the Quran accessible to Urdu speakers, enhancing religious education.
20th Century
Notable English Translations:
-The Holy Qur’an: Text, Translation and Commentary (1934) by Abdullah Yusuf Ali – One of the most popular translations, celebrated for its extensive footnotes that provide context and explanation for readers.
-The Meaning of the Glorious Qur’an (1930) by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall – A respected translation that aims to maintain the poetic nature of the original text while making it accessible to a wider audience.
-The Koran Interpreted (1955) by Arthur Arberry – An academic translation that focuses on preserving the rhythm and cadence of the Arabic text, appealing to those interested in the literary qualities of the Quran.
-Arthur Arberry – The Koran Interpreted (1955), notable for its scholarly approach and rhythm, bringing the beauty of the original Arabic to English readers.
-Muhammad Asad – The Message of The Qur’an (1980), focusing on a modern understanding while remaining rooted in tradition. This translation is known for its poetic style and interpretative approach but may include unconventional interpretations, appealing to readers seeking a deeper philosophical understanding.
-Saheeh International (1997) – A contemporary translation produced by three American women converts to Islam, focusing on a literal rendering of the Arabic text while providing clarity for modern readers.
21st Century
Recent Translations
-The Qur’an: A New Translation (2004) by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem – A modern translation that emphasizes clarity and fluidity in English while remaining faithful to the original meanings, accessible for contemporary audiences.
Notable Mention
-The Noble Qur’an: Meaning With Explanatory Notes (2007) by Muhammad Muhsin Khan and Muhammad Taqi-ud-Din al-Hilali – Known for its extensive footnotes based on traditional Sunni sources, making it a valuable resource for students of the Quran.
-Taqi Usmani – The Noble Quran with explanatory notes (2007), a contemporary rendering that includes thoughtful commentary aimed at modern readers.
-Tahir Mahmood Kiani – The Easy Quran in simple English (2022), designed to be accessible for readers unfamiliar with complex theological concepts.
-Edip Yüksel et al. – Quran: A Reformist Translation (2007), presenting an alternative perspective that seeks to align the text with contemporary understandings.
Other Languages:
Various translations into Urdu, Turkish, French, German, Russian, and more throughout the century, embodying the Quran’s universal message and its resonance in the hearts of millions.
Conclusion
In summary, there are countless translations available across various languages and time periods that reflect both historical contexts and contemporary interpretations, serving as a testament to the Quran’s enduring relevance and its role in shaping moral and ethical discourse around the world. The Quran has been translated into many languages, including English, to make its teachings accessible to non-Arabic speakers and foster a deeper understanding among readers from diverse backgrounds and highlighting the dedication of translators to convey the essence of this sacred text.
Interpretations
Quranic Interpreters and Their Works
The field of Quranic interpretation, known as Tafsir, has a rich history with many scholars contributing significant works. Below is a list of notable Quranic interpreters along with their respective works and dates, including the authors of Tafsir al-Jalalayn.
- Jalal ad-Din al-Mahalli
Work: Tafsir al-Jalalayn (Partially completed)
Date: 1459 CE - Jalal ad-Din as-Suyuti
Work: Tafsir al-Jalalayn (Completed the work started by al-Mahalli)
Date: 1505 CE - Ibn Kathir
Work: Tafsir al-Qur’an al-Azim
Date: Completed in the 14th century (around 1373 CE) - Al-Tabari
Work: Jami’ al-Bayan fi Ta’wil al-Qur’an
Date: Completed in the 9th century (around 923 CE) - Al-Baydawi
Work: Anwar al-Tanzil wa Asrar al-Ta’wil
Date: Completed in the 13th century (around 1260 CE) - Al-Qurtubi
Work: Al-Jami’ li-Ahkam al-Qur’an
Date: Completed in the 13th century (around 1273 CE) - Fakhr al-Din al-Razi
Work: Al-Tafsir al-Kabir (also known as Mafatih al-Ghayb)
Date: Completed in the late 12th century to early 13th century (around 1209 CE)
Conclusion
These scholars have made substantial contributions to the understanding of the Quran through their interpretations, each bringing unique perspectives and methodologies to their works.
Development of Quranic Interpretations
The interpretation of the Quran, known as Tafsir, has evolved significantly since the time of its revelation in the 7th century. This evolution can be traced through various methodologies and approaches, reflecting changes in linguistic understanding, cultural contexts, and scholarly focus. Below is a detailed timeline outlining key developments in Quranic interpretations and notable scholars associated with each phase. The development of Quranic interpretations has a rich history, from early linguistic interpretations by scholars like Ibn Abbas (circa 8th century) to later works by Al-Tabari (9th century) and Al-Ghazali (11th century). In the 21th century, various scientific interpretations from the major scientific fields emerged, aiming to Discover Scientific Facts from the Quran. Which Authenticates Quran as a divine book.
Early Interpretations (7th – 9th Century)
1. Prophetic Era (610-632 CE)
- The Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 23 years. During this period, interpretations were primarily oral and contextual, provided directly by the Prophet himself or his companions.
2. Companions of the Prophet (632-661 CE)
- After Muhammad’s death, his companions (Sahabah) began to explain verses based on their understanding and context.
- Notable figures include:
- Abdullah ibn Abbas: Known for his extensive knowledge and early Tafsir works.
3. Tabi’un Period (661-750 CE)
- The generation following the companions continued to develop interpretations.
- Scholars like Ibn Mas’ud contributed to understanding specific verses.
Classical Tafsir Works (9th – 12th Century)
4. Early Written Tafsir (8th – 9th Century)
- The first formal written Tafsirs began to appear.
- Notable works include:
- Tafsir al-Ma’ariful Qur’an by Al-Khattabi.
5. Al-Jahiz and Al-Maturidi (9th Century)
- Scholars like Al-Jahiz focused on linguistic aspects while others like Al-Maturidi emphasized rational interpretation.
6. Tafsir al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir (10th Century)
- Written by Ibn Ashur, this work emphasized contextual interpretation and linguistic analysis.
Golden Age of Tafsir (12th – 18th Century)
7. Ibn Kathir (1300s)
- His work, “Tafsir Ibn Kathir,” became one of the most widely read Tafsirs due to its comprehensive approach combining narration and reasoning.
8. Al-Suyuti (15th Century)
- Authored “Al-Durr al-Manthur,” which compiled various interpretations from earlier scholars.
Modern Interpretations (19th – Present)
9. Modernist Approaches (19th Century Onwards)
- Scholars began to address contemporary issues through the lens of Quranic teachings.
10. Sayyid Qutb (1950s)
- His work “In the Shade of the Quran” offered a socio-political perspective on Islamic teachings.
11. Scientific Interpretation (Late 20th Century-Contemporary Works )
- Scholars have focused on aligning scientific discoveries with Quranic verses.
- Numerous translations and interpretations have emerged in various languages addressing modern audiences:
Conclusion
The development of Quranic interpretations reflects a rich tapestry of scholarly effort spanning over fourteen centuries, adapting to linguistic evolutions, cultural shifts, and modern scientific understandings. Each era has contributed uniquely to how Muslims engage with their holy text today.
SCIENTIFIC AND ISLAMIC RESEARCHES 