A rendering of the Islamic scripture that aims to provide a direct equivalent for each individual lexical unit of the original Arabic text is a specific type of translation. This methodology prioritizes mirroring the source text’s structure at the smallest linguistic level. For instance, instead of conveying the overall meaning of a verse in a more natural, idiomatic style, each Arabic word is given a corresponding English (or other language) counterpart, even if this results in a less fluent reading experience.
The creation of such translations holds significance for various reasons. Students of the Arabic language and Islamic studies find them invaluable for understanding the grammatical nuances and lexical choices made in the original text. They facilitate a deeper engagement with the Quran’s linguistic fabric, allowing for a more precise analysis of its meaning and interpretation. Historically, these translations have played a role in making the Quran accessible to a wider audience, even those without a strong command of Arabic, while still preserving a close connection to the source material. This approach can aid in comparative studies across different interpretations and theological perspectives.
