WORD CHOICE AND APPROPRIATENESS: A SEMANTIC STUDY OF THE HOLY QURAN TRANSLATION

Abstract

This study explores the translation of Surah Yā-Sīn through the framework of Eugene Nida’s (1964) theory of dynamic and formal equivalence, concentrating on the impact of translation strategies on meaning, theological significance, and reader reception. The study examines the English translations of Hilali & Khan and Maulana Maududi throughout all 83 verses, revealing occurrences of ambiguity, excessive elucidation, and inadequate translation. The main goals were to look at how word choice affects accessibility, to see how dynamic equivalence affects clarity and understanding, and to see how well translations keep the Qur'an's theological and rhetorical depth. The findings indicate that Hilali & Khan’s methodology exemplifies dynamic equivalence, characterised by frequent explanatory insertions such as “(O Muhammad ﷺ)” or elaborated glosses like “mixed male and female discharge semen-drops.” These interventions improve immediate understanding for general audiences, but they frequently diminish the Qur’an's rhetorical conciseness and stylistic impact. On the other hand, Maulana Maududi's translations show a balanced approach leaning toward formal equivalence by keeping the structure, ambiguity, and traditional tone, with occasional dynamic adaptations for modern readability. This approach preserves the Qur'an's poetic and reflective attributes, yet may pose difficulties for readers unfamiliar with exegetical context. The study emphasises that translation is never impartial: lexical selections inherently convey theological, pedagogical, and stylistic priorities. Hilali and Khan help readers understand by being clear about their beliefs through interpretive glosses, while Maulana Maududi values being true to the text and being open to different interpretations, often enhancing narrative flow without excessive elaboration. Neither method is inherently superior; each fulfils specific objectives contingent upon the audience and educational context. This study enhances translation studies and Qur’anic hermeneutics by employing Nida’s equivalence categories to an entire surah. It shows that even small changes in words, like "dominion" instead of "absolute control," can have a big impact on how something is understood. This shows how important it is to find a balance between clarity and fidelity when translating sacred texts.