Tasnif Style Guide — Page 139
CHAPTER 12: TRANSLATION GUIDE 139 Foreign & Islamic Terms In the use of foreign words, a translator should always keep in mind that the very purpose of a translation is to accurately convey the meaning and essence of the original text. Wherever foreign words and terms convey a general sense that easily translate into English, they should be translated accordingly. However, if the foreign word carries a unique theological signifi- cance that is not captured in the English, the translator should consider retaining the original term. For example, Mujaddid could be translated as Reformer or Reviver, but that does not con- vey the lofty status and unique rank that Islam affords the term. Therefore, the translator should retain the term and accompany it with its best English translation in brackets; e. g. 'Imam Rabbani was the Mujaddid [Reformer] of his time. ' Customary Foreign Terms There are a number of foreign terms whose usage is commonplace within our Jama'at publications. These terms have appeared so frequently and extensively in our books that there is no need to further transliterate them. Their spellings should be retained as they commonly appear in our literature. Such terms include: Jalsa Salana (the Annual Convention), Langar Khana (the Community Kitchen), Dārul-Amān (the Abode of Peace-an epithet for Qadian), etc.