Preface

With so many English translations of the Qur'an available, it is inevitable that the reader would ask "why make another one?" The answer to that question lays in the current structure of the Islamic faith itself, and the fact that, for many centuries, Islam has been primarily subcategorized as either "Sunni" or "Shia" or one of the many other denominations that have emerged over the years. As such, all translators have belonged to one school of thought or another which clearly comes across in the interpretation of and choice of translation for specific words or verses.

The Qur'an - A Pure and Literal Translation is the result of a group effort by people who do not belong to any denomination, and, for the first time in many centuries, are simply proud to call themselves "Muslims" as God had named us centuries ago.

And strive in the cause of God its truly deserved striving. He is the One who has chosen you, and He has made no hardship for you in the system, the creed of your father Abraham; He is the One who named you 'those who have submitted (Muslimeen)' from before as well as in this. So let the messenger be witness over you and you be witness over the people. So uphold the communion and contribute towards betterment and hold tight to God, He is your patron. What an excellent Patron, and what an excellent Supporter." (Qur'an 22:78)

Also, while many translators have been sincere in their rendering of the Arabic meaning of the words, they have been unable to refrain from adding comments in the form of "parenthesis" within the text of the translation or in the form of footnotes and appendices to reflect their views on certain verses or the views of the denomination they adhere to. 

The Qur'an - A Pure and Literal Translation is unique in the fact that it uses neither footnotes nor comments letting the text speak for itself and delivering to the reader as close a rendition of the pure message of the Qur'an as physically possible.

"'Shall I seek other than God as a judge when He has sent down to you this Scripture fully detailed?' Those to whom We have given the Scripture know it is sent down from your Lord with truth; so do not be of those who have doubt. And the word of your Lord has been completed with truth and justice; there is no changing His words. He is the Hearer, the Knower." (Qur'an 6:114-115)

Finally, no matter how much can be said about this translation or any other, it is imperative to point out that guidance cannot come from any human being, rather, the only true knowledge and guidance can only come from the One who initiated the heavens and Earth. May He be glorified forever.

"And when God Alone is mentioned, the hearts of those who do not believe in the Hereafter are filled with aversion; and when others are mentioned beside Him, they rejoice! Say: 'Our god, Initiator of the heavens and the Earth, Knower of the unseen and the seen, You will judge between Your servants regarding what they disputed in.'" (Qur'an 39:45-46)

Welcome to the path of God Alone.

Welcome to The Qur'an - A Pure and Literal Translation.