The First Rhymed Translation of the Holy Qur'an in Hindko: An Analytical Study

ہندکو زبان میں قرآن مجید کا پہلا منظوم ترجمہ: ایک تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

This research article presents a linguistic and intellectual analysis of the Hindko poetic translation of the Holy Qur’an by the renowned poet and scholar, Abdul Ghafoor Malik. The study situates the translation within the broader historical and literary context of the Hindko language, aiming to understand its impact on religious expression in a regional linguistic framework. The article begins by outlining the historical development and cultural relevance of the Hindko language, thereby establishing a foundation for assessing the Qur’anic translation’s reception and significance.

It further explores the tradition of poetic translations of the Qur’an in Islamic history, shedding light on how, across different eras, the meanings of the Qur’an have been conveyed through verse in various languages. The paper also examines the Islamic legal discourse concerning the permissibility and limits of rendering the Qur’anic text into poetry, with reference to classical jurists and contemporary scholars.

Through a critical linguistic analysis of Malik’s poetic style, diction, rhythm, and semantic clarity, the article highlights the effectiveness of conveying the Qur’anic message in Hindko. The findings reveal that this translation not only enriches the religious and intellectual heritage of Hindko literature but also serves as a distinguished example of local-language Qur’anic understanding. It also illustrates that while religious writing in Hindko has historically been limited, Abdul Ghafoor Malik’s work represents a significant milestone.

The study recommends the promotion of Qur’anic expression in regional languages like Hindko and calls for further scholarly exploration in the domain of vernacular religious literature. It also suggests incorporating such translations into the curricula of religious seminaries and universities to strengthen grassroots comprehension of Islamic teachings.