Malaysia PM Urges Muslims to Read, Understand Quran in Own Language

TEHRAN (IQNA) –  Muslims can only make Islam a way of life if they read the Quran, the authoritative source on their faith, in a language they know instead of just reading Arabic script that they don’t understand, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said.

He told a small congregation at Hohola Mosque in the Papua New Guinea capital Port Moresby that although the Quran must be in Arabic, one must read the holy scriptures in a language they know in order to understand the teachings of Islam.

“If you read the Quran, it will teach you what is the way of life for the Muslims. But if you go according to certain interpretations by leaders, then you may not be getting the right message of the Quran that’s found in the Quran,” Mahathir said.

“So it is important that you learn from the Quran, even if it has to be translated into a language that you understand. Then and then only will you be able to live the life of a Muslim. Then and then only will Islam be a way of life.”

Muslims generally regard the Arabic text as the definitive version of the Quran. However, most Muslims in Malaysia do not understand Arabic, despite being able to read the script.

Tahfiz (Quran memorization) schools have also become increasingly popular, where students memorise the Muslim holy scripture through rote recitals, sometimes from a very young age.

The Malaysian prime minister said the fact remained that the teachings of Islam must be taught in an understandable language, the Malay Mail reported.

“It may be your own native language, it may be in English, or it may be any other language, but whether we like it or not, we have to read or understand the Quran in our own language.”

 “The Quran should be the final guidance for us. Whenever we fail to understand or whenever we find teachings to be in doubt, go back to the Quran,” he said.