Translations from one language to another are by nature a challenging task. Nevertheless, such tasks need to be undertaken if knowledge is to be shared.One such task was undertaken by a Penangite, the Mufti of Penang, Mr Ghulam Sarwar. He concluded the translation of the Quran while he was in London and published it in 1928. This month, Yayasan Restu launched the reprint of this translation for the first time in Malaysia. It comes in a handy, beautifully designed book form.
Thus far I have gone through about more than 30 translations – both English and Malay – and I will easily vote for this translation as the best. The English is simple, without losing the true meaning, and the sentences are well phrased. For anyone interested in understanding the Quran, I would recommend this piece of translation.
It is available at Selangor Islamic Arts Garden Complex, No. 2A, Persiaran Damai, Seksyen 16, Shah Alam (telephone no: 03-55119001/2/3). This complex, as I understand it welcomes both Muslims and Non-Muslims as it is also a research center.
With so much talk about “the process of Islamisation” going on, reading this translation is the first step to evaluate the process.
Dear Sir:
ReplyDeleteFirst, Selamt Hari Raya
Second: Thank you very much for your positive comment about the work.
Yes, it is a matter of fact that this translation is the simplest and most straightforward translation of the Qur'an.
One of the reasons behind adopting such simplicity is to produce a work that can be easily understood by Muslims and non-Muslims even if they know nothing about Isllam and al-Qur'an.
Besides that, the current translation could assist the one learning Arabic into understanding the language of the Qur'an.
Regards
Duraid Fatouhi, Brisbane
Mr Duraid,
ReplyDeleteSalam and Salam Aid Mubarak to you. I know you did a good job on it.
take care.