Translation & Tafseer
This course is designed to help students understand the meanings of the Quran through accurate translation and in-depth Tafseer (exegesis). Learners will study the Quran verse by verse with guided translation into their language (e.g., English/Urdu), followed by Tafseer to uncover the context, wisdom, and lessons. The program emphasizes connecting the Quran to daily life, strengthening faith, and enabling learners to reflect (Tadabbur) on the Quran beyond the surface meaning.
1. Importance of Translation & Tafseer
Why translation alone is not sufficient without Tafseer.
Understanding the Quran beyond literal meanings.
Role of Tafseer in clarifying difficult words, contexts, and rulings.
Making the Quran accessible for personal reflection and guidance.
2. Basics of Quran Translation
How translation works: word-for-word vs. contextual translation.
Common challenges in Quran translation (e.g., idioms, metaphors).
Learning key Quranic vocabulary for better understanding.
Developing skills to follow translation while reading Arabic text.
3. Introduction to Tafseer
What is Tafseer? Difference between Tafseer & translation.
Principles of Tafseer: using the Quran, Hadith, Sahabah opinions, and authentic scholars.
Overview of classical Tafseer works (Ibn Kathir, Jalalayn, Tabari).
Importance of Asbab al-Nuzool (reasons for revelation).
4. Translation & Tafseer of Selected Surahs
Guided study of Juz ‘Amma (short Surahs).
Word-by-word translation and explanation.
Contextual lessons and practical reflections.
Comparing literal translations vs. Tafseer explanations.
5. Thematic Tafseer & Lessons
Quranic themes: Tawheed, Prophethood, Akhirah, morality, worship.
Stories of Prophets and their wisdom.
Quranic guidance on family, society, and justice.
Verses about patience, gratitude, and reliance on Allah.
6. Tafseer of Longer Surahs (Intermediate Level)
Translation & Tafseer of Surah Yaseen, Surah Mulk, Surah Rahman, etc.
Exploring deeper meanings and rhetorical beauty.
Extracting rulings, ethics, and spiritual lessons.
Discussion of scholarly opinions on key verses.
7. Practical Application of Translation & Tafseer
Daily life lessons from Quranic verses.
Strengthening Salah by understanding Surahs recited.
Building personal reflection (Tadabbur) habits.
Connecting Tafseer with Seerah and Hadith.
8. Advanced Tafseer Studies (Optional Level)
Detailed study of selected longer Surahs (e.g., Surah Al-Baqarah).
Comparative Tafseer: different scholars’ views on one verse.
Contemporary Tafseer: applying Quranic lessons to modern challenges.
Research skills for independent Tafseer study.
9. Review & Progress Evaluation
Vocabulary quizzes based on Quranic terms.
Translation tests (Arabic to English/Urdu).
Written reflections on Tafseer lessons.
Final exam: Translation & Tafseer of a selected Surah with practical applications.