Arabic Sciences & English Tafsirs | Ep. 9 | The Quran Library | Nouman Ali Khan, Sohaib Saeed

Nouman Ali Khan - Official - Bayyinah・2 minutes read

Abdul YF Ali's biography, focusing on teaching Arabic grammar through English grammar and translating the Quran, highlights the significance of Quran translations and dictionaries like Lan lexicon for a deeper understanding. The text emphasizes the evolution of Quran translations, with early hostile versions influencing later biased translations, and the importance of critical assessment before embarking on new translation projects.

Insights

  • The text underscores the significance of studying Quran translations and dictionaries, particularly for a deeper grasp of Arabic language nuances within the Quran, emphasizing the pivotal role these resources play in enhancing understanding and interpretation.
  • It sheds light on the contentious history of Quran translations, revealing early translations' hostility towards Islam and Muslims, leading to a legacy of biased interpretations that continue to influence contemporary translations, prompting a critical evaluation of the translation process and the necessity of thorough commentary for an enriched comprehension of the text.

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Recent questions

  • How can I learn Arabic grammar effectively?

    Through English grammar teaching methods.

  • What are the challenges of translating the Quran?

    Biased translations and varying translation styles.

  • Who are some notable translators of the Quran?

    George Sale, Abdullah Yu Ali, Abdul Majid daradi.

  • What is the significance of Quranic dictionaries in language study?

    Enhancing understanding of Arabic roots and meanings.

  • How have Quran translations evolved over time?

    From hostile interpretations to collaborative efforts.

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Summary

00:00

"Studying Arabic through translations and dictionaries"

  • The text discusses the biography of Abdul YF Ali, featuring a picture of Marmaduk PCT, a handsome individual.
  • It mentions the importance of staying in one's lane and the concept of teaching Arabic grammar through English grammar.
  • The text introduces resources for learning Arabic, including a textbook on Arabic grammar from the Holy Quran and a commentary on the Al of Malik.
  • It highlights the significance of studying translations as a genre, particularly Quran translations, and the use of Quranic dictionaries like Lan lexicon.
  • The text praises Muhammad Hassan Jabal's approach to analyzing Arabic roots and meanings in his work, emphasizing its importance in word analysis.
  • It mentions the revised edition of a dictionary by Penrice and the Arabic English dictionary of Quranic usage edited by Professor Abdul Halim.
  • The discussion transitions smoothly to Quran translations, acknowledging the contributions of various translators, including George Sale's translation as one of the oldest copies.
  • The text emphasizes the value of studying translations and Quranic dictionaries for a deeper understanding of the language and meanings within the Quran.

17:08

Evolution of Quran translations and controversies

  • Early translations of the Quran were openly hostile towards Islam and the Prophet, with some Russian translations being done by orientalists who viewed Muslims negatively.
  • Later translations by Muslims were influenced by these early hostile translations, leading to a proliferation of biased translations.
  • Translations hostile to Islam were common in the early 20th century and remain popular today, such as Muhammad Marik pixel's translation.
  • Quran translations were significantly associated with the Indian subcontinent, with translators like Piol and Abdullah Yu Ali being based there.
  • Abdul Majid daradi's translation, with extensive footnotes and commentary, is not well-known but provides a comprehensive understanding of the Quran.
  • The translation of the Quran into English often lacks detailed commentary, which is essential for a deeper understanding of the text.
  • Different translations of the Quran have varying styles and approaches, with some focusing on fluency in English rather than literal translation.
  • The debate over translating the Quran has evolved, with some still opposing it, likened to beliefs in flat Earth theory.
  • Translations of the Quran and Tafsir are essential for those who do not have access to the original Arabic text, but the quality and depth of translations vary.
  • New translations of the Quran, like the one by No Keller, are collaborative efforts that bring different perspectives and approaches to the translation process.

33:53

Evaluating Quran translations in English: A critical analysis

  • Various orientalist scholars and translators, such as George S, have engaged with the Quran, with differing levels of success in their translations. Notable translations include those by DS Marth and TGF Hadad, with varying degrees of quality, while the extensive translation project of Aris OB ly remains a work in progress, highlighting the challenges of translating the entire text.
  • The narrator discusses the importance of critically assessing the necessity and impact of new Quran translations in English, emphasizing the need to identify gaps and contributions before embarking on such projects. They also mention their own translation project, urging a thoughtful approach to ensure meaningful additions to the existing body of translated works.
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