Early French Translations of the Quran (17th-19th Centuries)
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Les premières traductions françaises du Coran, (XVIIe-XIXe siècles)
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Sylvette Larzul
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Les premières traductions françaises du Coran, (XVIIe-XIXe siècles)
Year: 2009 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.21429
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article by Sylvette Larzul in the Archives de Sciences Sociales des Religions examines the evolution of French translations of the Quran from the 17th to the 19th century. The translations reflect a complex interplay between knowledge acquisition, religious dispute, and cultural representation. Initially, the translations were often characterized by a strong polemical stance and were deeply intertwined with the negative perceptions of Islam prevalent in Europe at the time. The piece discusses prominent translations, including those by André Du Ryer, Claude-Étienne Savary, and Albin de Biberstein-Kazimirski, and places them within the broader context of European translations and encounters with the Islamic world.
The Challenge of Translation
One significant concept explored in the article is the inherent challenge of translating the Quran—a text regarded by Muslims as the literal word of God—into another language. The Quran's inimitability makes translation highly contentious, as it is believed that no translation can fully capture its divine essence. This tension led to early translations being characterized by ambiguity and heavy bias. For example, the Latin translation by Robert of Ketton served primarily as a tool for religious polemics against Islam instead of a faithful representation of the text. As a result, translations throughout the centuries often oscillated between providing a rudimentary understanding of the text and misrepresenting its core tenets to fit the translators’ cultural and religious biases.
The Role of Historical Context
The article also emphasizes the impact of historical and cultural contexts on the reception and interpretation of the Quran in Europe. During the 17th century, the prevailing attitudes toward Islam were marked by suspicion and hostility, as evidenced by Du Ryer's translation, which, while pioneering, ended with a condemnation of Islam. The socio-political climate shaped the narratives surrounding the Quran, revealing the complexities of intercultural exchanges. Enlightenment thinkers, such as Savary, attempted to reformulate Islamic teachings in a way that aligned with contemporary rationalist thought, positioning Muhammad as a benefactor rather than a false prophet. This shift reflected a growing interest in understanding Islam beyond mere religious refutation, influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment and its critiques of traditional religious narratives.
Progression to Greater Accuracy
As the article details, the translations of the Quran evolved towards greater fidelity to the original text, especially with the advent of Kazimirski’s translation in the mid-19th century. Kazimirski aimed for a more accurate representation of the Quran, using Arabic as his primary language for translation, which marked a substantial improvement from earlier efforts that often relied on Latin or other translations. His work benefited from an expanded understanding of the Islamic faith, driven by a more scholarly approach to translation, reflecting the growing academic interest in Oriental studies. Despite the progress, Kazimirski’s translation still retained a certain bias, revealing the ongoing struggle of translating religious texts within the confines of one’s own cultural context.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the article underscores the historical trajectory of Quranic translations in France from the 17th to the 19th century, elucidating the shift from polemical to more scholarly translations. Each translator contributed uniquely to the evolution of understanding the Quran, framed by their own cultural lenses and the prevailing notions of their time. While early translations were often marred by biases and inaccuracies, subsequent efforts paved the way for a more nuanced engagement with the Islamic text, ultimately reflecting broader shifts in European attitudes towards Islam. The ongoing challenge remains for modern translators to navigate the complexities of faith, interpretation, and cultural representation in their works.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What does the article discuss about early French translations of the Quran?
The article examines the first French translations of the Quran from the 17th to 19th centuries, analyzing their progression and the translators' approaches, reflecting their contexts and views on Islam.
Who was André Du Ryer and what did he achieve?
André Du Ryer was a French diplomat and translator who published the first comprehensive translation of the Quran into French in 1647, breaking away from previous apologetic translations.
How does Savary's translation differ from Du Ryer's?
Savary's translation, published in 1783, aimed to present the Quran more artistically, reflecting Enlightenment ideas, while being based on Marracci's Latin version and adding critical commentary.
What challenges did early translators of the Quran face?
Early translators struggled with linguistic difficulties, cultural misunderstandings, and the prevailing negative perceptions of Islam, which influenced the accuracy and tone of their translations.
What was Antoine Galland's contribution to Quran translations?
Antoine Galland studied the Quran and attempted its translation in the early 18th century, producing a manuscript, but it was never published due to political and religious dynamics of the time.
What impact did Ludovico Marracci have on Quran translations?
Ludovico Marracci's Latin translation of the Quran, published in 1698, became a crucial reference for later translators, influencing the development of Quran translations in various European languages.
How did Kazimirski's translation improve upon earlier works?
Kazimirski's 1840 translation sought to provide a more accurate rendition of the Quran directly from the Arabic text, correcting many errors found in earlier translations like those by Savary.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Early French Translations of the Quran (17th-19th Centuries)”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Religion:
Religion, as a concept, is central to the understanding of the Quran and its translations. The Quran is considered the foundational text of Islam, making it a key religious scripture. Translators have often aimed to convey the religious significance of the Quran while navigating the challenges presented by differing interpretations stemming from various religious beliefs.
2) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: Pari]
3) Language:
Language plays a crucial role in the translation of the Quran. The original Arabic language of the Quran poses unique challenges due to its rich linguistic structures, requiring translators to find equivalent expressions in their target languages, such as French. Language affects the comprehension and dissemination of religious texts, impacting how they are received by different cultures.
4) Book:
The Quran is a book of divine revelations, regarded as the Word of God in Islam. As a book, it encompasses various themes such as faith, law, morality, and human existence. The translations of the Quran serve to open access to this important religious book for non-Arabophone readers, addressing both practical and theological aspects.
5) Knowledge:
Knowledge of the Quran is essential for understanding Islam. Translators and scholars have sought to provide greater knowledge of the Quran through their work, enabling readers to engage with its teachings. Knowledge also encompasses the historical and cultural contexts of the Quran, which shape interpretations and translations.
6) Egypt:
Egypt is significant in the context of Quran translations, particularly with connections to Claude-Étienne Savary, who studied Arabic while in Egypt. This historical backdrop adds depth to the understanding of the Quran, linking the text to the region's rich Islamic heritage and the translators’ experiences.
7) Error:
Error is often a consequence of the complexities involved in translating the Quran. Different translators have made various errors in their renditions, whether through misinterpretation of Arabic terms or unintended omissions. Acknowledging these errors can shed light on the challenges faced in the pursuit of accurate translations.
8) Sura (Shura):
A sura is a chapter of the Quran, and the division of the text into suras is fundamental to its structure. Understanding each sura is vital for translators as they strive to convey the intended meaning while maintaining coherence in their translation efforts. Each sura focuses on specific themes and teachings.
9) Image:
The image of the Quran is often perceived through the lens of cultural and religious interpretations. Translators must navigate the delicate representation of Islamic beliefs, symbols, and practices, aiming to create an accurate image of the text for readers unfamiliar with its significance.
10) Faith:
Faith is a core tenet of Islam, intimately connected to the teachings of the Quran. Translators addressing the Quran’s perspectives on faith face the challenge of representing nuanced beliefs. The notion of faith informs the understanding and practice of the religion, influencing translation choices.
11) Tree:
[see source text or glossary: Tree]
12) Enlightenment:
The Enlightenment period significantly influenced the translation and interpretation of the Quran. Intellectual developments fostered a critical approach toward religious texts, encouraging a deeper examination of their meanings. Translators sought to adapt Quranic themes within the broader context of Enlightenment thinking, reflecting contemporary values.
13) Doctrine:
Doctrine, as it relates to the Quran, involves the teachings and principles established within Islam. Translators often engage with doctrinal issues to effectively communicate fundamental Islamic beliefs, ensuring that their translations reflect the intended doctrinal sensibilities of the Quran.
14) Conquest:
The notion of conquest in Islamic history can be intertwined with the themes presented in the Quran. Translators may encounter references to historical conquests and their significance within the text, necessitating careful interpretation to capture both the literal and allegorical meanings.
15) Desire:
[see source text or glossary: Desire]
16) Drink:
The theme of drink is mentioned in several suras of the Quran, often associated with heavenly rewards and the consequences of God's judgment. Translators must accurately convey these themes, exploring the symbolic implications of drink as a representation of spiritual fulfillment or punishment.
17) Arabic language:
The Arabic language is the original medium of the Quran, embodying its poetic nature and complexity. Translators grapple with the intricacies of the Arabic language to deliver faithful adaptations in French, reflecting the Quran's profound linguistic heritage and its implications for meaning.
18) Pilgrimage:
Pilgrimage is a significant concept in Islam, referenced within the Quran. Drone of the Five Pillars of Islam, pilgrimage conveys essential religious duties and normative practices. Translators must convey the importance of pilgrimage in the lives of Muslims, weaving this cultural aspect into their translations.
19) Delight (Delighting, Delighted):
[see source text or glossary: Delight]
20) Persia:
Persia, or modern-day Iran, has historical ties to the development of Islamic thought and Quranic interpretations, particularly during the medieval period. Persian translations and commentary traditions reflect the broader cultural influences on how the Quran was understood across different Persian-speaking societies.
21) Night:
[see source text or glossary: Night]
22) Flame:
The imagery of flame appears in the Quran often in contexts related to judgment, hell, and divine wrath. Translators must navigate the symbolism of flame to present the gravity of such themes while informing readers of their significance in Islamic belief.
23) Light:
Light is an essential metaphor within the Quran, frequently symbolizing guidance, knowledge, and divine presence. Translators utilize the concept of light to illustrate the teachings and moral imperatives set forth in the scripture, allowing readers to grasp its spiritual dimensions.
24) Sleeping (Sleep):
[see source text or glossary: Sleep]
25) Hell:
Hell is depicted in the Quran as a place of punishment for those who fail to adhere to God's commandments. Translators are charged with accurately reflecting the descriptions of hell, its symbolism, and the consequences of non-belief in a way that resonates with the audience's understanding of moral lessons.
26) Face (Facing, Faced):
[see source text or glossary: Face]
27) Disappearance (Disappeared, Disappear, Disappearing):
[see source text or glossary: Disappearance]
28) Realization (Realisation):
[see source text or glossary: Realization]
29) Subjugation (Subjugated, Subjugate, Subjugating):
Subjugation relates to the historical contexts in which the Quran has been interpreted. The concept may involve themes of conquest and rule within Islamic history, emphasizing the political implications of the religious texts. Translators need to contextualize these passages appropriately.
30) Possession:
[see source text or glossary: Possession]
31) Literature:
Literature encompasses the broader cultural context within which the Quran is situated. The Quran not only serves as a religious scripture but also as a literary text that has inspired countless authors and thinkers throughout history. Its literary qualities inform translation approaches and interpretations.
32) Figurative:
Figurative language within the Quran adds depth and richness to its teachings. Translators face the challenge of maintaining the figurative nuances of the original Arabic while providing accessible meanings to non-Arabic speakers.
33) Experience:
Experience, particularly concerning textual or cultural encounters with the Quran, shapes interpretation and comprehension. Translators draw upon their experiences to inform their understanding of the text and its impact on varied audiences.
34) Evolution:
Evolution in the context of Quran translations reflects the progress made over centuries in comprehension and linguistic accuracy. Subsequent translations reveal shifts in methodology, philosophy, and religious thought, showcasing an evolving landscape.
35) Dimension:
[see source text or glossary: Dimension]
36) Scripture:
Scripture refers to sacred texts within religious traditions. In this case, the Quran holds primary significance as the scripture of Islam. Translators strive to respect its status as scripture, balancing loyalty to the original message with readability for modern audiences.
37) Merchant:
[see source text or glossary: Merchant]
38) Colouring (Coloring):
[see source text or glossary: Coloring]
39) Minister:
[see source text or glossary: Minister]
40) Weakness:
Weakness in translation refers to the shortcomings encountered when conveying the Quran’s meanings. Translators may face weaknesses in their grasp of nuances, leading to incomplete or inadequate representations of the text.
41) Peaceful:
Peaceful interpretations of the Quran are often emphasized in translations to align with broader notions of Islamic values. Translators work to present Islam as a faith rooted in peace while addressing contentious passages with care.
42) Chariot:
[see source text or glossary: Chariot]
43) Grammar:
Grammar is pivotal in understanding the Arabic language's structure, which influences the translation of Quranic verses. Mastery of grammar ensures translators can accurately convey meanings while respecting the integrity of the original text.
44) Dialect:
[see source text or glossary: Dialect]
45) Victory:
Victory is a recurring theme in Quranic texts, often associated with divine support and justice. Translators work to express the notion of victory within theological contexts, particularly concerning encounters between believers and non-believers.
46) Costume:
[see source text or glossary: Costume]
47) Hundred:
[see source text or glossary: Hundred]
48) Worship:
Worship is a fundamental aspect of the Islamic faith, underscored in the Quran. Translations seek to convey the essence of worship practices while ensuring readers appreciate their importance within the broader religious context.
49) Mastery:
Mastery refers to proficiency in the Arabic language necessary for translating the Quran effectively. It underscores the skill needed by translators to grapple with the complexities inherent in religious texts.
50) Student:
[see source text or glossary: Student]
51) Weapon:
Weapon, in this context, refers to the metaphorical use of the Quran as a tool for both spiritual guidance and, historically, as a means for ideological struggle. Translators must navigate this duality while conveying the text’s messages.
52) Purity:
Purity embodies a key moral principle within the Quran, emphasizing ethical living and spiritual clarity. Translation efforts often work to emphasize these values, presenting the Quran as a guide toward maintaining purity in faith and action.
53) Nature:
Nature is often referenced in the Quran, illustrating creation and God's omnipresence. Translators highlight these connections, ensuring readers can appreciate the Quran's perspective on humanity’s place within the natural world.
54) Heaven:
Heaven represents the ultimate spiritual reward in the Quran, highlighting themes of paradise and divine mercy. Translators strive to depict heaven's imagery while capturing its crucial theological implications within the text.
55) Thirst:
Thirst is frequently employed metaphorically in the Quran to depict spiritual yearning or divine punishment. Translations address these complexities, articulating the significance of thirst in both literal and figurative contexts.
56) Memory:
[see source text or glossary: Memory]
57) Speech:
Speech is critical within the Quran, as it emphasizes the importance of communication and the way divine messages are conveyed. Translators must navigate the implications of speech within the Quran's narrative and teachings.
58) Stream:
[see source text or glossary: Stream]
59) Garden:
The garden is a potent symbol of paradise in the Quran, representing divine blessings and eternal reward. Translators work to carefully depict the imagery of gardens to convey the allure of spiritual fulfillment.
60) Sunna:
Sunna, the practices of the Prophet Muhammad, provides context for understanding Quranic teachings. References to Sunna in translations highlight the relationship between the Quran and the lived experiences of Muslims.
61) Yati (Yatin):
[see source text or glossary: Yatin]
62) Fruit:
Fruit serves as a metaphor within the Quran, often representing sustenance and spiritual rewards. Translators must accurately convey these implications while preserving the richness of the original text's imagery.
63) Cloud:
[see source text or glossary: Cloud]
64) Doubt:
Doubt is addressed within the Quran, particularly concerning faith and adherence to God's commandments. Translators must explore these themes to present a nuanced approach to belief and reliance on God.
65) Camel:
[see source text or glossary: Camel]
66) House:
[see source text or glossary: House]
67) Power:
Power is a recurring theme in the Quran, often relating to the sovereignty of God and the implications for human authority. Translators navigate these themes to draw out the theological significance of power within the text.
68) Colour (Color):
[see source text or glossary: Color]
69) Heart:
Heart symbolizes the seat of emotion and spirituality in the Quran, connecting deeply to themes of faith and sincerity. Translators need to convey the importance of heart in understanding and fulfilling one's religious duties.
70) Depth:
Depth refers to the complexity of meanings contained within the Quran. Translators seek to uncover profound interpretations, requiring analysis of linguistic and theological dimensions that go beyond surface readings.
71) Woman (Women):
Women feature prominently in the Quran, reflected through various narratives and teachings. Translators must engage sensitively with these themes to convey the text's perspectives on gender roles and social dynamics.
72) Stone:
Stone often symbolizes both permanence and judgment in the Quran. Translators engage with these symbolisms to convey the lasting impact of divine decrees and the foundations of Islamic belief.
73) Shade:
[see source text or glossary: Shade]
74) Lotus:
[see source text or glossary: Lotus]
75) Space:
[see source text or glossary: Space]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 91]