Comparative Criticism of the Translations and Interpretations of Verse 71 of Surah Hud Based on the Element of Foregrounding and Delay

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran

Abstract

In order to convey the intended meaning of God accurately, translations of the Qur’an must be based on a precise and correct understanding of the verses. Inaccurate translations, especially given the general audience’s limited familiarity with Qur’anic sciences, may lead to incomplete understanding or the emergence of misconceptions. Therefore, in addition to considering the lexical meanings of words, the context of the verses, and internal textual clues, the translator must also be well acquainted with Qur’anic sciences, particularly the literary and rhetorical features of the Qur’an, and employ them in clarifying ambiguous passages. Foregrounding and delay (taqdim wa ta’khir) constitute one of the causes of ambiguity and appear frequently throughout the Qur’an. This study analyzes the views of Qur’anic commentators and comparatively examines most of the available translations of verse 71 of Surah Hud, including 201 translations in 26 living languages. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the research demonstrates that a case of foregrounding and delay occurs in this verse, resulting in an apparent ambiguity and inconsistency in the expression. Attention to this rhetorical feature resolves the discrepancy and confirms that Sarah’s laughter occurred as a reaction of surprise following the angels’ glad tidings. The findings further reveal that a significant majority of the examined translations in various languages rendered the verse without considering the element of foregrounding and delay, and consequently failed to present an accurate and coherent understanding of the verse.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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  • Receive Date: 10 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 20 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 22 May 2025

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