The importance of Tafsīr in Qur'ān translation

Abstract

The aim of this research is to show the importance of tafsīr as a context for the translation of the Qur'ān, in particular regarding the Muslim belief in Allāh and His Prophet . Translators of the Qur'ān are influenced by their own doctrines and interpretations. Fifteen translations of the Qur'ān from different religious and sectarian backgrounds have been selected for analysis in the present thesis. The translators use tafsīr (exegesis) and their opinions to translate the Qur'ān according to their beliefs. This thesis, therefore, fills a gap in Qur'ānic translation research. It focuses on the theological aspect of the differences found in these translations of the Qur'ān that stem from the tug of war of interpretation between the different types of tafsīr. This thesis also explores how and why different translations of verses from the Qur√ān vary specifically regarding the Muslim belief in Allāh and the last Prophet (Peace be Upon him).