Introduction
Mark of Toledo’s Latin translation of the Qurʾān is a significant work commissioned by the Archbishop of Toledo, Rodrigo Jiménez de Rada, around 1210. This translation serves as an essential historical and cultural artifact that sheds light on the Christian perspective of the time and reflects the broader context of religious and political tensions between Christianity and Islam. In this post, we will explore various features of Mark’s translation, including his adherence to the Arabic “original”, his translation techniques, and the underlying motives behind his work.
Adherence to the Arabic Text
Mark’s translation stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to faithfully render the Arabic “original” into Latin. What sets his translation apart is his meticulous attention to detail in preserving the linguistic structure of the Qurʾān. He recognizes the significance of word order, syntax, and vocabulary in maintaining the integrity of the sacred text. By placing such emphasis on fidelity, Mark demonstrates his profound dedication to providing Latin readers with an “accurate” rendition of the Islamic scripture, allowing them to access and engage with the profound teachings in their own language.
Root-Based Translations
A prominent feature of Mark’s translation is his consistent use of root-based translations. This technique involves translating words derived from the same Arabic root using related Latin words. By employing this approach, Mark highlights the semantic connections and etymological ties between these words. It allows readers to explore the interconnectedness of different concepts within the text, enriching their understanding of the Qurʾān. The deliberate utilization of root-based translations showcases Mark’s linguistic expertise and his commitment to preserving the inherent relationships between words, thereby ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive interpretation.
Literal Translation and Contextual Considerations
In his translation, Mark often favors literal renderings of Arabic words, focusing on their fundamental meanings rather than conveying subtle semantic nuances. This approach allows for a clear and straightforward understanding of the text. However, it occasionally overlooks the importance of contextual factors. For instance, in the translation of words like sabbiḥ and ḥamd in Sura 110, Mark translates both as “laudare/laus” without differentiation, despite their distinct connotations related to praise. While this approach may simplify the text, it disregards the deeper layers of meaning that context provides. Nonetheless, Mark demonstrates a more nuanced consideration of context in certain instances, such as his translation of tawwāban as “misericors,” which aligns with the intended meaning of the text. This selective consideration of context showcases Mark’s evolving approach to translation.
Influence of Christian Beliefs
Mark’s translation bears the unmistakable imprint of his Christian cultural background and reveals occasional influence from his own religious convictions. This influence becomes apparent in his choice of Latin words that align with Christian concepts and values. By translating certain terms, such as “tawwāban,” as “pius” and “propitium,” Mark introduces a theological interpretation within a Christian framework. These choices not only provide valuable insights into Mark’s personal beliefs but also serve the purpose of promoting Christian ideas and countering Islamic teachings within the translation itself. It is important to note that while Mark’s translation is influenced by his Christian worldview, it remains a product of his time and context.
Promoting Christian Conversion
To fully comprehend Mark’s translation, it is crucial to contextualize it within the larger political and cultural agenda of Archbishop Rodrigo Jiménez de Rada. Mark’s work was not conducted in isolation but was part of a concerted effort to challenge and discredit Islam while actively promoting Christian conversion. This agenda is reflected in the language and style of Mark’s translation, which were deliberately crafted to persuade readers to embrace Christianity and reject Islam. Through his translation, Mark played a crucial role in the broader endeavor to advance Christian dominance during a time of religious tension. While it is essential to acknowledge this agenda, it is equally important to recognize the translation’s historical significance and its impact on interreligious dialogue and intellectual discourse of that era.
Circulation and Usage
Mark’s translation had a profound impact on the circulation and usage of the Qurʾān among Latin-speaking Christians, particularly within Dominican circles. It reached scholars, theologians, and individuals who were knowledgeable in Arabic, providing them with direct access to the Islamic scripture and enabling theological discourse. The availability of a Latin translation expanded the opportunities for exploration and analysis of Islamic teachings, promoting a deeper understanding of Islam within Christian communities. Additionally, Mark’s translation played a crucial role in evangelization efforts, allowing Christian missionaries to engage with Muslims by presenting Christian teachings in a language they were familiar with. This facilitated theological dialogue, comparative studies, and intellectual exchanges between Christianity and Islam. Beyond academic circles, Mark’s translation resonated with individuals in Dominican communities, satisfying their curiosity and fostering spiritual growth as they sought insights into Islamic teachings. Ultimately, Mark’s translation contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of different religious traditions among Latin-speaking Christians.
Conclusion
Mark of Toledo’s Latin translation of the Qurʾān offers a unique perspective on the interactions between Christianity and Islam in the 13th century, reflecting fidelity to the Arabic “original” while revealing the influence of his Christian beliefs and the broader Christian agenda. The variations in translation choices, especially with nuanced words like tawwāb, highlight translator challenges and shed light on the cultural, religious, and political dynamics of that era.
Mark’s translation showcases the role of translation in cultural and religious engagement, reflecting intellectual and theological exchanges between Christianity and Islam. It holds relevance in contemporary interfaith dialogue, emphasizing respect for diverse religious texts and traditions while acknowledging translator biases.
Studying Mark of Toledo’s Latin translation of the Qurʾān provides valuable insights into medieval Christian understanding of Islam and the complexities of rendering a sacred text. It deepens our appreciation for the historical context and transformative power of translation in fostering dialogue and understanding across religious traditions.
Further readings
Burman, Thomas. 2007. Reading the Qur’an in Latin Christendom 1140-1560. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press.
Cecini, Ulisse. 2012. Alcoranus Latinus: Eine sprachliche und kulturwissenschaftliche Analyse der Koranübersetzungen von Robert von Ketton und Marcus von Toledo. Berlin/Münster: LIT Verlag.
Cecini, Ulisse. 2012. “Faithful to the ‘Infidels’ Word: Mark of Toledo’s Latin Translation of the Qurʾān (1209-10).” In Frühe Koranübersetzungen, edited by Reinhold F. Glei, 83-98. Trier.
Cecini, Ulisse. 2013. “Main Features of Mark of Toledo’s Latin Qurʾān Translation.” Journal of the Medieval Mediterranean 25, no. 3: 331-344.
Pick, Lucy K. 2004. Conflict and Coexistence: Archbishop Rodrigo and the Muslims and Jews of Medieval Spain. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press.
Yazid Haroun 