Respected Believers

There was a time in Malabar when translating the Holy Book was considered taboo, both by commoners and scholars. The majority of Ulama, who had popular support, opposed the idea of understanding the Quran in any language other than Arabic.

Today, however, we gather here in a Quran seminar to honor the cherished memory of KV Ustad Kootnad, a renowned translator and commentator of the Quran in Malayalam. This marks a significant milestone in the progress of our approach to Quran translation. Numerous translations of the Quran are available today, offering a wide range of interpretations.

It is important to note that the Quran does not impose a minimum level of intellectual capacity on its audience. Both a primitive bedouin and a righteous clergy in madrasas can appreciate its beauty. A scientist may be equally amazed by the wonders of creation, just as a mystic seeks the attributes of the Most Merciful.

However, the Quran emphasizes the value of learning and knowledge. It is not without reason that the Creator mentions the Pen and Book as the first two objects in its chapters.

Truth is absolute and ultimate, but our interpretations and perceptions may not be. We must remember that every sect of modern Islam claims its foundations from the verses of the same Holy Book. Whether it is the Mu’tazilites, Shia, Batinites, or even the Qadiani movement, all profess their creed to originate from this Sacred Text.

Undoubtedly, the Quran represents the final pinnacle of Truth. With our translations, we aspire to bring our hearts and minds one step closer to this ultimate word of God.

(Highlights of Jaihoon’s speech at the KV Ustad Commemorative Quran Seminar held at Darul Hidaya Da’awa College, Manoor, Malappuram – Kerala, on Oct 26 2015)