An Explanatory Model of Word Selection in the Translation of the Holy Quran (Translation of the Chapter Al-Fātiha based on Research Methodology)

Translation of the Holy Qur’an has always been a problematic and difficult issue in Islamic theology. However, what challenges this great task, apart from different translation types such as literal and free translation, is a lack of the methodology of translation. This article aims improving the ability of translating the Holy Qur’an especially for those young scholars who wish to carry these Islamic teachings to the English-speaking countries. Next, the paper clarifies the principles and distinctive features of each choice. This research is actually the result of a termlong discussion in Hawzah Language Center of Qom about the way of translating the Holy Qur’an. It shows the way of making an acceptable translation, examining the viewpoints of Surah Al-Fātiha translators, by selecting the most suitable English equivalent for each word, with the reasons for every choice and preference. Furthermore, this study covers the religious vocabulary of the Holy Book as well as literary issues and at the end the extra points related to the Surah Al-Fātiha.