Wahiduddin Khan

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (1925–2021) was a prominent Indian Islamic scholar known for his peaceful and modernist approach to Islam. His Quran translation and commentary in English and Urdu is widely read, especially by audiences seeking a rational and accessible interpretation.

However, like any human work, his translation has been subject to criticism by traditional scholars and others. Below are some noted criticisms and perceived “mistakes” or controversial points in his translation and tafsir, particularly from a traditionalist perspective:

1. Interpretive Translation Rather than Literal

  • Criticism: Wahiduddin Khan often interprets rather than literally translates the Quranic verses, inserting explanation within the verse.
  • Example: Words like “Jihad” are sometimes recast as only “peaceful struggle”, excluding the traditional understanding of armed struggle in certain contexts.
  • Concern: Scholars say this blurs the line between translation and tafsir (exegesis), and may mislead readers who think they’re reading the direct meaning of the Quran.

2. Minimization of Jihad in the Military Sense

  • Issue: Khan was firmly non-violent and emphasized “peaceful dawah” (calling to Islam).
  • He downplayed or reinterpreted verses of combat (like Surah At-Tawbah 9:5 or 9:29) as historical or defensive only.
  • Critics argue that this is not aligned with classical tafsir like that of Ibn Kathir, al-Tabari, or al-Qurtubi, who maintain a broader scope of jihad (both peaceful and combative when necessary).

3. Ash‘ari & Traditional Theology Divergence

  • Wahiduddin Khan’s views do not align with traditional Sunni creeds (Ash‘ari, Maturidi, Hanbali).
  • He emphasizes rationality over classical theology, and avoids discussions about divine attributes, qadar (destiny), etc., which are prominent in traditional discourse.
  • Criticism: His translation avoids deep theological meanings, which some scholars believe is a dilution of core beliefs.

4. Modernist Influence

  • Wahiduddin Khan was influenced by modernist Islamic thinkers and tried to align Islam with modern science, logic, and secular frameworks.
  • Some critiques: He sometimes filters Quranic verses through a modern lens, possibly leading to distortions or selective emphasis.
  • Example: Descriptions of miracles or unseen realities are sometimes toned down or explained metaphorically.

5. Lack of Traditional Tafsir References

  • His work rarely cites classical scholars like Ibn Abbas, Mujahid, al-Qurtubi, etc.
  • Critics say this gives the impression that his interpretation stands alone, disconnected from the Islamic scholarly tradition.

Example Comparison: Surah At-Tawbah 9:5
“…then kill the polytheists wherever you find them…”

  • Traditional translations: Maintain the literal language, then add footnotes or context that this applied in a historical battle situation.
  • Wahiduddin Khan: Often rephrases this in a defensive or historical context right in the verse, suggesting it is not a general command.

Summary of Criticisms

  • Interpretive Style: Translation becomes exegesis without clarity
  • Jihad Reinterpretation: Downplays martial aspects present in Islamic law
  • Modernist Theology: Disconnect from traditional Sunni theology
  • Selective Citation: Lack of reference to classical tafsir
  • Appeal to modern secular values Risk of diluting divine message

Features of Sahih International Translation

Literal but Accessible

  • Strives for accuracy while using modern English.
  • Avoids archaic terms like “thee” and “thou” (used in older translations like Pickthall or Yusuf Ali).
  • Remains close to the Arabic wording with limited interpretation inside the verse.

Theologically Neutral

  • Does not strongly reflect a specific madhhab (school of thought) or sect.
  • Tries to stick to meanings agreed upon by traditional scholars, with conservative use of explanatory notes.

Widely Used and Trusted

  • Often used in Muslim apps, Masajid, Dawah materials, and Islamic studies.
  • Endorsed by scholars and translators for being balanced and reliable.

Example Comparisons
Let’s compare a few verses between Sahih International and Wahiduddin Khan to see the differences in approach:

Surah At-Tawbah (9:5)
Known as the “Verse of the Sword”

Sahih International: “And when the sacred months have passed, then kill the polytheists wherever you find them and capture them and besiege them and sit in wait for them at every place of ambush. But if they should repent, establish prayer, and give zakāh, let them [go] on their way. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.”

Wahiduddin Khan: “When the forbidden months are over, then fight the polytheists—if they attack you—wherever you find them. Capture them, besiege them, and lie in wait for them at every likely place. But if they repent, say their prayers, and pay the alms, then let them go their way. God is most forgiving and merciful.”

Difference: Wahiduddin adds “if they attack you” — this is not in the Arabic, but an interpretation to frame the verse as purely defensive. Sahih International sticks closely to the Arabic and lets the context be explained elsewhere.

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)
About the Quran being guidance

Sahih International: “This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”

Wahiduddin Khan: “This is the Book of God: there is no doubt about it. It is a guide for those who are God-fearing.”

Difference: Slight stylistic variation, but both are accurate here. Wahiduddin adds “Book of God” while the Arabic says “This is the Book” (ذَٰلِكَ الْكِتَابُ), which Sahih International follows more strictly.

Final Recommendation
If you’re looking for a faithful and neutral translation that is close to the Arabic, use Sahih International.