Why My Translation of the Quran Stands Out

My translation of the Quran is the result of decades of scholarship, linguistic precision, and a deep commitment to faithfully conveying the words of God—free from personal interpretation or sectarian bias. With over forty years of experience translating Arabic to English, and academic training in linguistics and neuroscience, I approached this work with a unique blend of analytical rigor and spiritual reverence. My goal was to make the Quran accessible to English-speaking readers while preserving its original intent and sacred tone.

Unlike many other translations, my translation emphasizes verbatim accuracy. I avoided layering the text with personal interpretations or ideological slants, allowing readers to engage directly with God’s message. When a word or phrase holds different meanings across various Islamic schools of thought, I chose the most widely accepted and contextually appropriate translation. This approach helps minimize bias while ensuring clarity, making my translation a trusted resource for readers from diverse backgrounds.

I am also aware of the historical challenges women face in religious scholarship, particularly in translating sacred texts. With this in mind, I took great care to ensure that my translation would not be perceived as an attempt to modernize, reinterpret, or politicize the Quran. I stayed faithful to the text—even when some verses are difficult or subject to debate—and let the Quran speak for itself. My intention was never to elevate any particular viewpoint, but rather to present the divine message exactly as it was revealed.

Written in clear, modern English, my translation avoids the archaic language that can alienate contemporary readers. I designed the structure and flow based on principles of cognitive science—recognizing how repetition, clarity, and simplicity enhance learning and long-term retention. By making the Quran more linguistically accessible, I hope to foster a lifelong relationship between readers and God’s word.

Importantly, my translation does not seek to replace scholarly interpretation. It is a foundation—a starting point—for reflection, study, and spiritual growth. Complex verses, like those with disjointed letters (Muqattaʿat), are presented without speculative interpretation out of respect for their divine mystery. Readers are encouraged to explore tafsir and hadith if they wish to deepen their understanding.

This translation was a labor of love—years of careful research, cross-referencing, and revision went into each chapter. After examining numerous translations, particularly those that use archaic or inaccessible language, I chose to create a version that is not only readable but also true to the essence of the original Arabic. My aim was to preserve tone, rhythm, and meaning while allowing English-speaking readers to feel as close to the message as possible.

I humbly pray that God accepts this work and forgives any shortcomings. My translation is a sincere offering for those who wish to engage with the Quran in a language they understand—one that respects the sacredness of the original while providing clarity, accuracy, and accessibility for today’s readers.