Tafsir and Translations of the Qur'an

There are some differences in understanding the Qur'an for generations after the first addressees of the verses. Because more than fourteen centuries have passed and conditions have changed. Therefore, we need helpful information about the environment in which the verses were revealed. As a matter of fact, we can meet this need with the help of tafsir books. 

In the tafsirs, information is given about who the verses are addressed to among the polytheists, hypocrites and believers, on which events, where and when they were revealed. In addition, detailed explanations about the meanings of the words in the Arabic language are given. This information is extremely important for the correct understanding of the verses. If some conclusions are drawn from the translation of the verse without resorting to tafsirs, it is highly likely that they will be wrong. As a matter of fact, some extremists are doing this today and are turning to movements that are never compatible with Islam. These groups do not take into account the method of understanding the Qur'an that scholars have practiced throughout history and act extremely arbitrarily. On the other hand, many translations of the Qur'an have been made today. There are some differences in meaning in these translations. It should be noted here that these differences arise from the language structure of Arabic.

 It is clear that translations of the Qur'an provide an important opportunity for those who do not know Arabic. But what should be considered when making use of these translations?  The following can be said in this regard: 

Translations make an important contribution to those who want to have a general knowledge of the content of the Qur'an. It should also be noted that reading translations of the Qur'an should not be neglected in order to gain a certain sensitivity in matters of faith, worship and morality. However, the Qur'an was revealed in Arabic. Therefore, a translation of the Qur'an is not the Qur'an itself. Maybe we can say that it is a source that represents the first meanings of the verses and gives general information about the world view of Islam.

Due to the aforementioned features, translations of the Qur'an are not used to make judgments or to issue fatwas on religious matters. Again, translations of the Qur'an are not the only sources from which we can learn religion. For this reason, on a subject put forward about religion, saying, "Is this in the Qur'an?  If not, I won't accept it." would not be the right approach.

It is possible to infer very different meanings and interpretations from the translations of the Qur'an. For example, if ten new Muslims who do not know anything about Islam are given the same translation of the Qur'an and are told to understand and live the religion only by abiding this translation, then ten different understandings and practices of religion will emerge. Therefore, it is decisive for us how the Prophet Muhammad (saw) understood and practiced the Qur'an. Because Almighty Allah (swt) has chosen Him as a guide for the understanding and application of this religion and has made us responsible for following it. Again, how His (saw) companions and students understood and practiced the Qur'an is among the basic principles for us. Because they know what subject or events the verses are related to, they have a good grasp of its meaning and purpose.  

In conclusion, the following can be said: Today, there are many tafsirs (interpretations) and translations of the Qur'an in every language. In a way, this provides an important advantage to learn the meanings of the divine word. However, we must not forget that it has become a necessity to be selective and consult experts in the field. As there are many books and sources online that provides unreliable information about it.