New Delhi: A new English translation of the Holy Quran, The Glorious Quran, was officially launched at the India Islamic Cultural Centre. The event brought together scholars, religious leaders, and community members, highlighting the Quran’s enduring relevance.
A Vision for Clarity
The program opened with a Quranic recitation and a poem by Mahirul Qadiri lamenting how Muslims have neglected the Quran. Dr. Zafarul-Islam Khan, the translator and commentator, emphasized the need for a modern, accessible English translation. Existing translations, he noted, often fail to address contemporary issues. His work seeks to provide clarity for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
A Scholar’s Dedication
Dr. Khan, an esteemed Islamic scholar, studied at Al-Azhar and Cairo University and earned his PhD from Manchester University. He has authored and translated over fifty books. His annotated translation is available in two editions one with parallel Arabic text and another in English only, both featuring footnotes and appendices. A digital version is also available at thegloriousquran.net.
He recounted that his journey began in the 1980s after identifying errors in existing translations, particularly Abdullah Yusuf Ali’s. However, it was during his 2010 Hajj pilgrimage that he resolved to undertake this work seriously. By 2011, he had begun revising, and from 2020 to 2023, he dedicated himself entirely to the project.
Rigorous Scholarship
Dr. Khan relied on the earliest and most authentic Arabic sources, avoiding theological disputes that divide Muslims. What began as a revision of Yusuf Ali’s work evolved into a new translation with an extensive introduction, a biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and detailed indices, making it a valuable resource.
Acclaimed by Scholars
The launch was presided over by Dr. Syeda Syedain Hameed, former Planning Commission member, and included notable speakers:
• Prof. Saleem Engineer (Vice President, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind)
• Maulana Muhibullah Nadwi (Member of Parliament)
• Prof. Abdul Majid Qazi (Jamia Millia Islamia)
• Prof. Muhammad Qutbuddin (Jawaharlal Nehru University)
• Dr. Waris Mazhari (Jamia Hamdard)
• Abdul Wadood Sajid (Editor, Inquilab)
Former Delhi Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung praised the translation as “one of the finest,” commending its clarity and insightful commentary.
Abdul Wadood Sajid called it a “monumental achievement,” emphasizing its focus on social justice. Prof. Saleem Engineer noted its simplicity, making it accessible without requiring a dictionary. Prof. Majid Qazi placed it in historical context, explaining how early Orientalist translations distorted Islamic teachings, while Dr. Khan’s work corrects past errors.
Prof. Muhammad Qutbuddin and Dr. Waris Mazhari highlighted the translation’s engagement with contemporary issues like women’s rights, migration, and jihad, praising Dr. Khan’s scholarly approach.
A Landmark Contribution
Closing the event, Dr. Syeda Syedain Hameed congratulated Dr. Khan for his remarkable contribution to Islamic scholarship. The program was moderated by senior journalist Masoom Moradabadi, who commended Dr. Khan’s lifelong dedication to knowledge and community leadership.
With The Glorious Quran, Dr. Khan offers a clear, insightful translation that bridges linguistic and historical gaps, making the Quran more accessible for a global audience.
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