Tarjuman al-Quran - Definition and Meaning 📚
Comprehensive Definition:
Tarjuman al-Quran is a partial Urdu translation and commentary (tafsir) of the Quran by Abu al-Kalam Azad, a towering figure in twentieth-century South Asian intellectual and political history. The work covers the first twenty-three surahs (chapters) of the Quran. It is especially notable for its extensive commentary on Surah Al-Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Quran.
Etymology and Background:
- Etymology: The term Tarjuman comes from Arabic تُرْجُمَان (turjumān) meaning “translator” or “interpreter.” The phrase Tarjuman al-Quran therefore translates to “Interpreter of the Quran.”
Detailed Background:
Abu al-Kalam Azad (1888-1958) was a prominent Islamic scholar, journalist, and a major political leader in the Indian independence movement. His work Tarjuman al-Quran was driven by the aim to make the sacred text more accessible to Urdu-speaking Muslims and encourage a deeper understanding of its philosophies.
Historical Facts and Dates:
- 1888: Abu al-Kalam Azad is born.
- 1957: The publication of Tarjuman al-Quran.
- Azad saw Surah Al-Fatiha as encapsulating the teachings of the entire Quran and his commentary on it extends beyond religious insights to address socio-political ideology.
Cultural Differences and Impacts:
- South Asia: The work is deeply rooted in the socio-political context of undivided India and illustrates Azad’s vision for a united Hindu-Muslim identity.
- Broader Islamic World: While Azad’s focus is on Islamic principles, he stresses the universality and the essential unity of all religions.
Synonyms and Antonyms:
- Synonyms: Tafsir (تفسير), Quranic Commentary, Exegesis of the Quran
- Antonyms: N/A
Related Terms with Definitions:
- Tafsir (تفسير): Exegesis or detailed commentary of the Quran.
- Surah (سورة): Chapters of the Quran.
- Al-Fatiha (الفاتحة): The opening chapter of the Quran, often called “The Opening.”
Exciting Facts:
- Abu al-Kalam Azad was one of the youngest people to serve as President of the Indian National Congress.
- Tarjuman al-Quran reflects Azad’s broad-minded thoughts and his advocacy for Hindu-Muslim unity in colonial India.
Quotations:
“Surah Al-Fatiha encapsulates the entire message of the Quran. It is the key to the vast treasury of wisdom that the holy text holds.” - Abu al-Kalam Azad
References and Suggested Literature:
- “India Wins Freedom” by Maulana Abu al-Kalam Azad
- “The Life and Times of Abu al-Kalam Azad” by Anwar Moazzam
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” – a classical Islamic exegesis for further reading on Quranic commentary.
Inspirational Send-off:
“The interpretative journey through Tarjuman al-Quran unveils not just the wisdom within Islam but also the unity underlying all faiths, resonating Azad’s vision of a tolerant and united world.”
May your quest for wisdom be as persistent and enlightening as the exegesis of Maulana Abu al-Kalam Azad. 🌟
