Translating the Bahá’í Writings

Abstract

Although the difficulties of translating the holy Word are recognized, Bahá’í institutions have always stressed the importance of translation. No approach to biblical or quranic translation corresponds completely to the Bahá’í ideal, just as no former religious leader combined Shoghi Effendi’s unique dual role as Guardian and translator. Bahá’í institutions have defined the most salient theoretical issues relating to Bahá’í translation. In translating the Bahá’í
writings, faithfulness to the original text is paramount. This is defined as reflecting the beauty of the original and accurately conveying the concepts of the original. Consultation is an integral part of the translation process, and translations of scripture are seen as a tool for education. Bahá’í translators today face a number of practical problems caused by a lack of resources, cultural differences, and linguistic underdevelopment.