Are translations correct?

Although made with the best of intentions, Quran translations have shortcomings. Words often have multiple meanings, and a sentence can be translated superficially if not all of those meanings are considered. Many translations are also bound by historical and classical interpretations, which can obscure deeper meanings.

A reader can reach a fuller understanding of the Quran through reflecting freely, comparing different translations, and looking into the different meanings a word can carry. Pray for the Truth makes this easier by letting readers compare translations side by side and consult a detailed dictionary of word roots.

An Example

The verse below is translated accurately, but a look at the root dictionary reveals a deeper principle beneath the surface translation — one with real implications for how a society organizes itself.

The root dictionary shows that the word translated as "rightful owners" can also mean "people characterized by, responsible for, or distinguished in a particular field, authority, knowledge, or rank."

Read this way, the verse points to a principle of merit: trusts — jobs, responsibilities, ranks, positions — should go to whoever has the most knowledge and competence in that domain, not to whoever is simply next in line for it.

This is a standard the Quran sets against nepotism, favoritism, and other forms of corruption in how positions of trust are given out — a principle that, when applied, reduces the risks of incompetence and mismanagement and strengthens a society's overall wellbeing.

Conclusion

Translations aim to be faithful, but no translation can carry every layer of meaning a word holds in the original Arabic. Reflecting freely, comparing translations, and checking word roots lets a reader recover meanings a single translation may miss — sometimes, as with 4:58, uncovering a principle with real bearing on how a society functions.