Women in English Qur'ān Translations: Critical Intertextual, Intratextual, and Contextual Analyses

Abstract:Since the rise of feminism, the representation of women in the scriptures of world religions has attracted much attention. The field of Qur'ānic studies has been no exception. For example, in 1944 the Arab Feminist Conference demanded restoration of women's rights in light of the correct understanding of the teachings of the Qur'ān. Since that time, Qur'ānic verses on women have been the focus of much research. However, little attention in this regard has been paid to Qur'ān translations. Can Qur'ān translations present images of women differently from the original text? To answer this question, this article attempts an intertextual, intratextual, and contextual analysis of the Qur'ān in Arabic and six widely used English translations. It argues that intertextual, intratextual, and contextual analyses are indispensable for the accurate translation of the Qur'ān and they can open up the text for wider interpretations instead of limiting its meaning and restricting its interpretation. In addition, this article highlights the role that translation plays in reinforcing specific interpretations as the "only acceptable" meaning of the Qur'ān.